The Ladies Gaelic Football Association Est 1974

Official Guide

Containing competition and playing rules, revised and corrected up to date, and published by authority of central council This publication replaces all previous versions published.

Official Guide Part One

1 2 Contents

The Ladies Gaelic Football Association 4 Name 5 Definitions 5 Aims and Objectives 6 General 7 General Finance 10 Membership 11 Registrations 12 Voting Procedures 13 Injury Fund 15 Injury Fund Arbitration & Procedure 18 Affiliation 19 Code of Ethics 19 Drugs 19 Sponsorship 19 International 20 Clubs 23 Club Executive Committee 25 Player Eligibility 25 Grading for Players & Counties 29 Schools & Colleges Committees 30 County Board Convention 31 County Board 32 Home County 36 Provincial Convention 36 Provincial Council 37 Provincial Championships 39 Annual Congress 40 Central Council 42 Investigations 45 Suspensions & Reinstatement 46 Objections & Appeals 49 Transfers 52 Inter Club Transfers 53 Inter County Transfers 54 Index 55

3 THE LADIES GAELIC FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION The Ladies Gaelic Football Association was founded in Hayes Hotel, Thurles, County Tipperary on 18 July 1974. Four counties, Offaly, Kerry, Tipperary and Galway attended the meeting. However, eight counties namely Cork, Kerry, Tipperary, Waterford, Galway, Roscommon, Laois and Offaly participated in the first official All Ireland Senior Championship of that year, which was won by Tipperary. Today, Ladies Gaelic Football is played in all counties in Ireland. It is also played in Africa, Asia, Australia, Britain, Canada, Mainland Europe, New Zealand, South America and the USA on an organised basis. It is imperative for our Association to maintain and foster our supportive contact with our International units. Our Association in Ireland must influence and help Ladies Football Clubs Internationally and share the spirit of home with those who are separated physically from their homes and to introduce those who have no connection with Ireland to the enjoyment of our sporting culture and heritage. The structure of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association is similar to that of the GAA with Clubs, County Boards, Provincial Councils, Central Council and Annual Congress. The National President is elected for a three year term of office and has the option to seek re-election for a second consecutive three year term. The Association was recognised by the GAA in 1982. In the early years of its foundation, the Association used the rules in the Official Guide of the GAA in conjunction with its own rules. The Ladies Gaelic Football Association decided at a Central Council meeting on 7th October 1985 to publish its own Official Guide. A Committee comprising of National President Pat Quill, Vice-President Peter Rice and Chairman of the Wexford County Board Kieran Dunne were selected to carry out this task. The Committee forwarded its findings to a Special Congress on the 8th March 1986. The first Official Guide was ratified on that date. The Association organises National Competitions for counties in Under 14, Under 16, Under 18, Under 21, Junior, Intermediate and Senior. National Championships are organised for Club Champions in Junior, Intermediate, Senior and 7-A-Side, Post Primary Schools, Third Level Colleges as well as an annual Interprovincial Competition. The Association acknowledges and appreciates the GAA for the use of its pitches and facilities. The Ladies Gaelic Football Association is an organisation which endeavours to reach into communities in Ireland and Internationally to promote Ladies Gaelic Football and to support the Irish Language and other aspects of Irish culture. Voluntary workers and employees throughout Ireland and Internationally promote 4 the ideals of the Association and assist other organisations with like ideals. Name 1. The name of the Association shall be The Ladies Gaelic Football Association or Cumann Peil Gael na mBan.

Definitions 2. “Association” or “the Association” – Means The Ladies Gaelic Football Association “Bye-Laws” – Means rules adopted by an organisation in order to regulate its own affairs and the behaviour of its members. (Such rules, in the context of these rules, may be adopted to provide solutions for local conditions, matters or situations not otherwise adequately provided for in the rules. Bye-Laws, when approved by Central Council, have the same force and effect as if enacted as part of the rules.) “CCA” – Shall have the meaning assigned to it by and as defined in Rule 137. “City or town” – (1) Where more than one club exists in a CCA which encompasses within its boundaries a city or town and (2) Where more than one CCA occupies part or parts of a town or city, the CCA shall not apply. “Committees, Boards or Councils” - Means Committees of Clubs, Schools, Colleges and sub-committees thereof as well as sub- committees of County Boards, Provincial and Central Councils. Boards mean County Boards. Councils mean Provincial or Central Councils. “Electronic Form” – Any form/document/mail which is capable of being transmitted in digital form via the internet or telephone system. “Exceptional circumstances” – Means any circumstance or circumstances not governed by the provisions of the rules. “Ex-Presidents” – One year after their term of office as President expires “5 working days” – Means 5 days which do not include Saturdays, Sundays and State recognised national holidays. The rule is to be similarly applied in whatever jurisdiction the business of the Association is being conducted but subject to such local variations in State recognised holidays as may be applicable. “Interested Parties” – Means persons whose rights within the Association may be affected by any appeal decision made by or to be made by the Committee, Board or Council hearing the Appeal or by any decision of a Disciplinary Committee. “International Units” – Means International Boards 5 “Majority” – “A simple majority” shall consist of 50% +1, of votes cast by those present and entitled to vote. The presiding Chairperson shall have a vote and In the event of a tie shall have a casting vote. An exception arises where a tie occurs in an election when, if one candidate is an outgoing office holder, such person shall be elected. “A two-thirds majority” shall consist of two-thirds of the votes cast by those present, voting and entitled to vote. “Real Property” - Means the property of the Club, County, Province or Central Council, of an immovable nature, comprising any playing pitches, grounds or buildings, whether of leasehold or freehold tenure, with all fixtures and fittings attached thereto and used therewith. “Rules” – Means The Official Guide for the time being in force. “Sanction” – Means any fine, penalty, disqualification or suspension, including the Sin Bin, or other form of limitation imposed on any member or playing member of the Association. “Standing Orders” – Mean rules adopted by the Association to govern and control procedure and the behaviour of its members at its meetings. “Team Lineouts” - Teams shall Lineout in designated positions as follows: 15-A-Side - Goalkeeper, 3 in Full Back Line, 3 in the Half Back Line, 2 Midfielders, 3 in the Half Forward Line and 3 in the Full Forward Line. 13-A-Side - Goalkeeper, 2 in the Full Back Line, 3 in the Half Back Line, 2 Midfielders, 3 in the Half Forward Line, 2 in the Full Forward Line. 11-A-Side - Goalkeeper, 2 in the Full Back Line, 2 in the Half Back Line, 2 Midfielders, 2 in the Half Forward Line, 2 in the Full Forward Line. 9-A-Side - Goalkeeper, 3 Defenders, 2 Midfielders, 3 Forwards 7-A-Side - Goalkeeper, 2 Backs, 2 Midfielders, 2 Forwards “Third Level Colleges” – Universities, Higher Education Institutes and any other body providing 3rd Level Education and whose games are administered by the Higher Education Committee (HEC) Aims and Objectives 3. The aim of the Association shall be to foster, promote, develop and control Ladies Gaelic Football. 4. The Association shall promote Ladies Gaelic Football as a means for leading an active and healthy lifestyle. 5. The Association shall endeavour to support the advancement of the Irish

6 language and other aspects of Irish culture. 6. The Association shall assist in promoting development through its Clubs at Local, Community and International level. 7. It is recommended that the National Flag be displayed at all matches. General 8. The Association shall be democratically structured on the basis of: (a) Members (b) Clubs (c) County Boards, including Schools and Colleges Committees and any other Committees under the control of the County Board (d) Provincial Councils (e) Central Council (f) Annual Congress The Central Council, based in Ireland, shall be the supreme governing body of the Association worldwide. 9. The Central Council and Provincial Council chairperson and vice chairperson shall be titled President and Vice-President. 10. The President of each Provincial Council shall be automatically Vice- President of Central Council. 11. In the absence of the President of Central Council to chair a meeting, it shall be chaired by the President of the Provincial Council in whose Province the meeting is being held, or another Vice President, or person nominated by the members at the meeting. 12. In the case of the death or permanent incapacity of the National President, Central Council shall have the authority to appoint from among the Vice-Presidents, an acting President, who shall perform the duties of the Presidency until the next Annual Congress. 13. The Association shall be an Amateur Association and shall be non- sectarian and non-political. It should co-operate with other organisations with aims similar to its own. 14. Official correspondence to Provincial and Central Councils in connection with County matters, except in the case of appeals, must come through a designated e-mail address and the person sending the e-mail must enter his/her name at the end of the correspondence. All other correspondence must be signed by the Secretary or authorised officer of the County Board. 15. All official Club correspondence must come through the Club Secretary, or an authorised officer and must be signed by such officer. Where a 7 designated e-mail address is used, the person sending the e-mail must enter his/her name at the end of the correspondence. All official correspondence, including team lists, should preferably be in Irish. However for practical purposes, the English version will suffice. 16. Any irregularities in the affairs of the Association which occurred within the previous 12 months may be investigated by the Club, County Board, Provincial or Central Council, or the Management of Provincial or Central Councils. The Investigation Committee of the Club or County Board shall report to the Club or County Board, whilst the Management Committee of Provincial or Central Council shall report to Provincial or Central Council. The relevant Board or Council shall deal with the offending parties where necessary. 17. In examining any given situation the Committee, Board or Council shall use video evidence at its discretion. It shall not be used in relation to the result of a game. Video evidence shall be relevant, authentic and unedited. 18. Each competing Club, School, College, County or Province shall be responsible for the conduct of its members and followers. 19. Team mentors, officials or players are not allowed to smoke during the course of a game while inside the pitch boundaries. Breach of the rule shall result in a fine of €100. 20. The Secretary/CEO shall have charge of correspondence, keeping of records and recording of minutes of meetings. Such minutes, having been proposed and adopted, shall be signed by the Chairperson/President. The Secretary/CEO shall submit an annual report at the Annual General Meeting, County or Provincial Convention and Annual Congress. Since all documentation is the property of the Club, County Board, Provincial and Central Council, the Secretary shall hand over to the incoming Executive/Management Committee all minutes and records held upon retirement at the end of the year or upon resignation at any time during the year. Failure to do so may be investigated by a Committee of the next highest level of the Association. Deliberate failure to do so shall involve suspension until they are furnished. 21. The Registrar shall record membership and shall submit the list of Club Members to the County, Provincial and National Registrars. 22. Clubs and Counties must appoint a Children’s Officer who should be a member of the Executive Committee and shall have voting rights.

8 Children’s Officers should be player-centred in focus. They should have as their primary aim the establishment of a player-centred ethos within the Club and County. The Children’s Officer is the link between young players and adults in the Club or County. The Children’s Officer is responsible for ensuring that the Code of Ethics and Good Practice policies are implemented within Club or County. The Association shall have a designated Children’s Officer at National level. 23. All nominations for positions to Committees, County Boards, Provincial or Central Councils and all matters which require a proposal and seconder must be made by two separate people. 24. Clubs, County Boards, Provincial Councils and Central Council shall elect an Executive or Management Committee. They shall hold office and conduct the business thereof until the conclusion of the following AGM, Convention or Congress. The Executive Committee shall be answerable to the full Club membership, full County Board, Provincial and Central Council delegates. 25. At the time of the election of the Executive Committee, should any particular position fail to be filled through nominations or those present at the meeting, nomination papers shall be sent to the Club or County within 7 days, seeking candidates for the vacant positions to be filled at the next meeting. 26. Should any member of the Executive Committee resign, be deemed to have resigned, or his/her position otherwise lapse, the remaining members of the Executive Committee shall seek a replacement. The appointment shall be approved by the full Club, County Board, Provincial or Central Council. 27. In the absence of the Chairperson or Vice-Chairperson of Club or County Board or the President or Vice-President of Provincial Council to preside over a meeting, the members present shall choose someone in attendance to preside for that meeting or until such time as the Chairperson, Vice- Chairperson, President or Vice-President arrives at the meeting. 28. A Special General Meeting/EGM may be summoned by the Executive/ Management Committee of Club, County, Provincial or Central Council or at the signed request of 10 Full Members. The only business to be transacted at such meeting shall be the special business for which it is summoned. At least 5 days notice shall be given of the time, place and special business of the meeting, unless in emergency situations, where shorter notice shall suffice. 29. An Emergency Meeting of the Club, County Board, Provincial or Central Council may be called by the Chairperson/President or by a signed request of 10 Full Members. 9 30. A decision made by the Club Committee, County Board, Provincial or Central Council shall not be altered at a subsequent meeting, except on a motion supported by a two-thirds majority of those present, voting and entitled to vote. 31. Clubs, County Boards, Provincial and Central Councils shall have the right to elect sub-committees. The duties of such sub-committees shall be outlined and the Club, County Board, Provincial and Central Council shall retain control in all matters, including the disposal of funds in the hands of such sub-committees. General Finance 32. Club, School and College Committees, County Boards, Provincial and Central Councils shall have power to raise finance and to control, administer and utilise the funds at their disposal in the interests of the Association. 33. Club, School and College Committees, County Boards, Provincial and Central Councils shall keep true and accurate accounts and records showing their financial affairs. Receipts, invoices etc., to support all transactions shall be retained for a period of at least 5 years, and shall at all times be open to inspection of the members of the Executive Committee. 34. Any real property held by Clubs, County Boards and Provincial or Central Councils shall not be sold, leased, transferred, conveyed, mortgaged, or otherwise charged or dealt with without the consent of Central Council. 35. Club, School and College Committees, County Boards, Provincial and Central Councils shall open their own bank accounts. Cheques and other transactions on these accounts shall be signed by the Treasurer or joint Treasurer and either by the Assistant Treasurer, Chairperson or Secretary. 36. Club, School and College Committees, County Boards, Provincial and Central Council shall be responsible for authorised expenses of their officials and referees acting on their behalf. 37. County Boards, Provincial and Central Councils shall have the power to request Club, School and College Committees, officials, or players to produce any books, documents, or any other evidence that may be required from time to time. 38. The Treasurer shall have charge of all financial affairs of the Club, School and College Committees, County Boards, Provincial and Central Council and operate such affairs as requested by the relevant Board, Committee or Council. Employed Financial Administrators of the Association shall be responsible for the day to day financial transactions to the relevant Treasurer(s) and Management Committee of the Association. 10 A Financial Report shall be presented at each meeting of the Club and County Board, Provincial and Central Council and to each meeting of the Management Committee of Central Council. The reports shall also show how funds are invested. A Financial Report supported by bank statements shall be presented at Annual Meetings, Conventions and Congress and as requested by the governing bodies. 39. The Committee, Board, or Council represented by the Treasurer/Financial Administrator shall furnish a balance sheet of the accounts for the year just ended, to the Club, County Board, Provincial and Annual Congress. The Financial Year ends on 31st October each year. These must be supported by bank statements. Failure to do so shall result in suspension until furnished. In the absence of a County Board, the accounts shall be forwarded to Provincial or Central Council as appropriate. 40. Payment of monetary sanctions shall be made within 13 weeks of notification thereof. Failure to do so may result in suspension from Association activities. Membership 41. Membership of the Association shall be granted by a Club. However officers of Central Council may register with the National Registrar and become Full Members by doing so. Membership shall be open to all regardless of their age, ability, gender, race, ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexuality or social/economic status. 42. Full Membership may be given to all persons, who have reached 18 years upon payment of the appropriate membership fee and who register with a Club. 43. Youth Membership may be granted by a Club only to persons who have not reached the age of 18 years, who pay the membership fee, and who subscribe and undertake to further the aims of the Club and the Ladies Gaelic Football Association. 44. In order for a player to be eligible to play for a Club she must be a Full or Youth Registered Member of that Club in accordance with Rules 138 to 141. In order to play for a County team she must be a Full or Youth Registered member of a Club. 45. Each accepted Full and Youth Member shall pay a membership fee as decided by the Club. Any such member who has not paid their membership fee by the 1st June shall cease to be a member from that date. 11 46. Honorary Membership shall be confined to persons who have given exceptional service to the Association. An Honorary Member shall not have voting rights. 47. Social Membership may be granted to persons who have reached the age of 18 years, who undertake to further the aims and objectives of the Club and the Ladies Gaelic Football Association. They are not entitled to vote or to take part in the administrative affairs of the Club or the Ladies Gaelic Football Association. 48. Only a Full Member of the Association who has paid their Membership Fee and who is not suspended or disqualified, may seek election to any Committee, Board or Council. Registrations 49. The Club Registrar shall submit to the County, Provincial and Central Council Registrars on the official electronic system the Club’s list of registered members. Each registration shall be accompanied by a Registration fee, Development Fund fee and a compulsory Injury Fund fee as determined by County Board, Provincial and Central Council. (a) Under 10 membership (dates of birth must be recorded) (Present Fee €5.00 to Central Council + €5.00 Injury Fund + Club, County Board, Provincial and Development Fund) (b) Under 12 to Under 18 membership (dates of birth must be recorded) (Present Fee €15.00 to Central Council + €10.00 Injury Fund with optional €25.00 + Club, County Board, Provincial and Development Fund) (c) Over 18 membership (Present Fee €15.00 to Central Council + €25.00 Injury Fund + Club, County Board, Provincial and Development Fund) (d) Club and Team Officials, Trainers, Coaches and Selectors (Present Fee €15.00 to Central Council + Injury Fund (optional) + Club, County Board, Provincial and Development Fund) (e) Under 14 players under the jurisdiction of the Provincial Council of Britain. (Fee of £1 to the County Board, £1 to Provincial Council and £1 to Central Council) County managers, trainers, coaches, selectors and team officials must also be registered. 50. The only exceptions to the Injury Fund Scheme are: (a) Those taking part in official Schools competitions 12 (b) Non playing members of the Association, whose participation in the fund shall be optional (c) Players taking part in the Gaelic4Mothers & Others initiative. 51. A player’s registration is valid only when received by the Registrar of the relevant County Board, Provincial and Central Councils accompanied by the appropriate fee. 52. The Registration Year shall be from 1st June to 31st May of the following year. 53. Any player registered between 1st January and 31st May shall be deemed to be registered up to and including the 31st May of the following year. Players registered with a new Club will be covered until the end of their first competitive season. 54. All registered female members who have paid their Registration, Development and Injury Fund Fees, and who fulfil the appropriate eligibility conditions, shall be eligible to play for a Club, County or Province. 55. Any team proved to have played an unregistered player shall be fined €100 per offending player and shall forfeit the game to their opponents unless exempted by Rule 260. 56. All officers of County Boards, Provincial and Central Councils must be registered members of affiliated Clubs unless exempted under Rule 41. Voting Procedures 57. Only Full Registered Members as outlined in Rule 41 whose membership fees are paid no later than the 1st September of the Registration Year and who are not suspended or disqualified are eligible to vote at a Club, County Board, Provincial or Central Council meeting and sub-committees thereof. Where it is found that an unregistered or ineligible member voted, and their vote would have changed the outcome of the decision, that decision shall be declared null and void. Where it is found that their vote did not affect the outcome, the decision of the meeting shall stand. 58. Each Club and County shall be allowed three voting delegates, one of whom must be a current player, to County Board, Provincial and Central Council in addition to any who may hold officership at Provincial and Central Council. 59. Should the nominated delegates to Central and Provincial Councils be unable to attend meetings, substitutes may attend, provided they are members of the County Board concerned.

13 60. Election of Officers of the Association shall be by secret ballot. Candidates for positions at County and Provincial Conventions and Annual Congress who are unable to attend the meeting, shall indicate in writing their intention to go forward for election and shall be added to the list of nominees. The candidate who obtains a simple majority of the votes cast by those present and entitled to vote shall be deemed elected. If there are more than two candidates and none has achieved a simple majority, the candidate with the lowest number of votes shall be eliminated and another ballot held. The process should be repeated until a result is achieved. In the event of a tie where an outgoing officer or representative is involved, he/she shall be deemed to be re-elected. If an outgoing officer or representative is not involved, the tie shall be decided by lot. 61. Decisions may be taken by a show of hands. However, contentious issues shall be decided by secret ballot. 62. Officers of Central Council shall be members of their respective Provincial Councils, County Boards and Club Committees with voting rights. Likewise, officers of Provincial Councils shall be members of their respective County Boards and Club Committees with voting rights. 63. Officers, Delegates and members of sub-committees of Provincial and Central Councils who have voting rights, shall be entitled to vote in their respective Councils, County Boards and Clubs. 64. Decisions of Club and County Boards, Provincial and Central Councils, shall be taken by a simple majority. In the event of a tie, the presiding Chairperson or President shall have a second or casting vote. 65. Club or County Boards, Provincial or Central Councils shall have the power to appoint full-time or part-time paid officials. They shall not have the right to vote except with their Home Club, provided they are not a paid official of that Club. They shall be subject to the terms and conditions laid down by the relevant Committee, Board or Council. Each Committee, Board or Council shall be responsible for the payment of such officials. Paid officials shall not be eligible to hold an elected position on Club, County Board, School or College Committees, Provincial or Central Councils or sub-committees thereof, other than his/her Home Club, provided they are not a paid official of that Club.

14 Paid officials shall not be eligible to coach, train, manage, select or have any other related involvement with Inter-County, Provincial, Schools or any Club teams, other than his/her own Club. Injury Fund 66. Central Council shall administer a compulsory Injury Fund. It should be clearly noted that the Ladies Gaelic Football Association (hereinafter referred to as the Association) is acting in a merely gratuitous manner and this fund, is not, and shall not, be interpreted either as an insurance or indemnity, nor shall it in any way bind the Association to a legal obligation to members. Risk is an inherent factor in sport. When players voluntarily take part in games, they automatically accept the risks involved. 67. The Injury Fund will not provide cover to a person who develops a condition later in life as a result of a previous injury received while playing Ladies Gaelic Football. 68. No person shall be entitled to participate in the games organised by the Association without first paying the Injury Fund fee for inclusion in the fund. The fee shall be paid electronically with the Registration Fee. A team playing a player who has not paid the Injury Fund fee shall, subject to the rules then pertaining, forfeit the match or suffer such penalty as the Association shall from time to time prescribe. 69. Exemptions from the scheme shall be: (a) Players participating in official School competitions (b) Non playing members of the Association whose participation in the scheme shall be optional (c) International Units as sanctioned by Central Council (d) Players participating in Gaelic 4 Mothers & Others (e) Under 14 players under the control of the Provincial Council of Britain 70. The subscription to the fund shall be determined by Central Council. Present rates are €25 for an adult, €10 for 11 to 18 year olds and €5 for an Under 10 year old. A player paying the €25 shall be entitled to be considered for a payment of wages or salary loss together with medical treatment only. A player paying €10 or €5 shall be entitled to be considered for payment of medical expenses only. There is nothing in this rule that shall be construed so as to imply that a person paying the higher rate shall be entitled, as of right, to compensation for wages or salary. 15 71. The Registration and Injury Fund year shall commence on 1st June each year and terminate on 31st May of the following year. 72. A player or Club registering or affiliating to the Association after 1st January in any year, shall be included in the fund up to and including the 31st May of the following year, except in the formation of a new Club as provided in Rule 53. 73. Where a player is registered with an existing Club between 1st January and 31st May, she shall also be included on the registration system for the new Registration Year ie. registration, which takes effect from 1st June. The date of registration between 1st January and 31st May should be endorsed in the column for the Injury Fund. 74. The object of the Fund is to mitigate hardship incurred by: (a) Medical expenses to a maximum of €5,500 (b) Dental treatment to a maximum of €3,000 (c) Loss of wages or salary to a maximum of €200 per week for 20 weeks (d) Physiotherapy, which shall be limited to a maximum of 6 sessions. If subsequent sessions are required, a full report outlining the reasons must be submitted by the registered physiotherapist or registered physical therapist. Further payment will only be considered on receipt of this report. It is not envisaged that the Fund will fully compensate, nor does it attempt to fully compensate individuals. Priority consideration shall be the payment of medical expenses. 75. The Central Council of the Association shall determine the amount to be paid to an injured party. Central Council shall be entitled to take all and every matter it considers relevant into account in coming to its determination. This may include benefits from Social Welfare, Hospital Services, Medical Cards, Private Medical Insurance and any other benefit of any nature whatsoever accruing to the injured party. Nothing in this section shall be construed so as to imply any legal right to the applicant, either in terms of amount of entitlement or to be considered for payment. Central Council shall from time to time decide and fix a sum, which shall be referred to as the “Maximum Payment” in respect of treatment, salary or wages, for which injured parties shall be considered. 76. Injury claims will be monitored on a claim by claim basis. A player who plays while receiving treatment may have her claim refused. 16 77. All applications for payment of money from the Injury Fund shall come through the County Secretary or other authorised officer, on an official application form and shall be accompanied by medical certificates, receipts, bills, referees reports where applicable, and any other documentation as required by Central Council. Where the injury has occurred in a club game, the claim form must be signed by the Club Secretary. Where the injury occurred in training, the claim form must be signed by the person in charge of the training session, preferably a qualified coach and the Club Secretary. The County Secretary should be notified of the Claim Notification Number and dates of payment. 78. In order to be considered for payment, all claims must be lodged with Central Council within 8 weeks from the date of the injury, unless otherwise approved by Central Council. Where claims are received late by Central Council, and where the delay is due to the Club or County Secretary or other authorised officers, the Club or County Board may be held responsible for the payment of the claim. 79. County Secretaries or other authorised officers shall set up a Register of Claims showing the date of injury, date of claim, date received and date sent to Central Council. 80. Should an applicant fail to lodge a claim application in accordance with the rules, or give incorrect particulars on the application form, s/he shall not be considered for payment. 81. Preliminary claim forms must be submitted within 8 weeks of the date of Injury, if treatment is likely to exceed €200. Where a preliminary claim form has been submitted, a report and update on the claim must be submitted by the injured party within one year from the date of the preliminary notice, to validate the claim. 82. All claims, of which preliminary notices have been received must be lodged and validated within 2 years of the original preliminary notice, except in exceptional circumstances. 83. An application without the necessary documentation will be declared void. 84. An application made by a member which, in the opinion of Central Council is not a bona fide application, or which is made for the purpose of obtaining payment to which s/he is not entitled, shall be declared void. Central Council shall be at liberty to suspend both the applicant and the persons who countersigned the application form, for an indefinite period 17 and make an order for repayment of any monies that may have been paid on foot of the application. 85. A member shall not seek payment from the Fund for private treatment where the cost of treatment exceeds, or is likely to exceed €200, unless: (a) Prior sanction is received from the Management Committee of Central Council. (b) In an emergency situation. Any request for private treatment must be supported by documentary evidence from a medical practitioner, to show the reason why private treatment is necessary. Private treatment is defined as any treatment for which payment is made outside of the public health treatment system. 86. Applicants shall submit themselves for examination by Medical Practitioners appointed by the Association, when and where the Association shall require. Strict compliance with this rule is fundamental to consideration to benefit from the Fund. 87. The Central Council of the Association shall be the sole and final arbiter of all matters connected with the fund and the scheme. However, in the case of a dispute on any matter, without prejudice to the rights of the Association to decline, an arbitration procedure will be available. 88. The above rules govern the Injury Fund Scheme and it is a condition precedent of entitlement to consideration under the scheme that members, prior to their joining, are fully acquainted with its terms and conditions and agree to be bound thereby. It is also a condition precedent of the Scheme, that members who have not read or do not understand, or have not had the scheme explained to them, are deemed to be fully aware of its contents in its entirety. Injury Fund Arbitration Procedure 89. An Arbitration Board shall be appointed in a case where arbitration is warranted. It shall consist of one person nominated by Central Council and a member of the Association nominated by the claimant, together with an independent professional person nominated by Central Council. 90. Decisions of the Arbitration Board shall be conclusive, final and binding on all parties, and under no circumstances shall either party appeal to any Court of Law in respect of any matter arising out of the Scheme. It is a condition precedent of this Scheme that the finding of the Arbitration Board be accepted as final and binding.

18 Affiliation 91. Payment of an affiliation fee by Clubs, Schools, Colleges or County Boards shall be as decided by the Club, School, College, County Board, Provincial and Central Councils. Teams shall not compete in official competitions until such affiliation fees have been paid. All International Units shall pay an affiliation fee to Central Council and shall provide a list of registered players to Central Council. Code of Ethics 92. Central Council shall have in place a Code of Best Practice in Youth Sport for the protection and safeguarding of children/young people under 18 years of age (including the disciplinary and other procedures to be applied in the event of the breach of that Code) and shall be entitled to amend or revoke any provision of the Code from time to time. That Code shall provide for the manner in which it is determined whether the procedures under the Code or the provisions of any other rule shall be invoked in any particular case. The Code of Best Practice in Youth Sport shall specify the disciplinary procedures to be applied for breaches of the Code. 93. Not withstanding Rules 137, 138, 139 and 140, a player, players or guardian may apply in writing to the Management Committee of Central Council for permission to deviate from a specific rule or rules under the Code of Ethics and seek permission to play with another Club. Such permission may be granted where circumstances are deemed to warrant it, subject to approval by Central Council. Drugs 94. The Anti-Doping Rules of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association are the same as the Irish Anti-Doping Rules as amended from time to time. Sponsorship 95. The rules governing sponsorship shall be as defined by Central Council. 96. The Management Committee of Central Council shall have the power to negotiate and administer sponsorship and naming rights and submit to Central Council for approval. 97. The Associations corporate logo shall be displayed on all jerseys worn by players during official Inter-County games. 98. County Board, Club, School and College Committees, Provincial and Central Council shall have authority to negotiate sponsorship in accordance with the

19 regulations drawn up from time to time by Central Council. The sponsorship must be approved by the relevant Committee, Board or Council. The Association shall allow sponsorship of playing attire, trophies, competition tournaments, functions and other areas, provided such sponsorship is not in contravention of, and does not pose any threat to, the aims and objectives of the Association. 99. Sponsorship of playing attire shall be accepted, provided presentation is made to the officials of the appropriate unit of the Association, that there is no obligation to wear the attire in any particular game or team photographs, and it conforms to the guidelines of Central Council. 100. Playing attire may also bear the name of the team or any appropriate crests. 101. Markings allowed on jerseys, tracksuits, kit bags, etc, shall be the manufacturers or sponsors brand name, crest or logo. The sponsors brand name or logo is allowed on the front of the jerseys and on the sleeves, which shall not exceed 350 square centimetres. The calculation of the size does not refer to the area covered by the individual letters of a name or logo, but to the total area. Additional branding on other area(s) of Jerseys shall be allowed as per specifications approved by Central Council. 102. Any unit of the Association which breaches the above sponsorship rules shall be liable to a fine, disqualification and/or loss of expenses. Individuals in breach of the rules shall be liable to suspension. 103. Units of the Association must also be aware of the GAA Rules governing sponsorship while using their property. International 104. Where there is not an independent International Ladies Football Board, the Ladies Gaelic Football Association recognises the GAA Boards and their structures for the administration of Ladies Gaelic Football. However, the rules as outlined in the Official Guide of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association shall apply to all areas of playing rules and discipline. 105. All International Units except Britain shall submit via the electronic registration system to the Ladies Gaelic Football office in Croke Park, the names of their Ladies Gaelic Football Clubs, the female players and members thereof accompanied by a Registration Fee of €2 per person by the 1st June each year with the exception of the Australasian Board who will pay an agreed Annual Fee to Central Council. However, Units which participate in All Ireland competitions must pay the 20 Full Registration Fee as outlined in Rule 49. Units in the USA and Canada must provide a list to Central Council on or before 30th April. Players who are resident in the USA or Canada on that date shall be deemed to be home based players. 106. International affiliated Units of the Association shall be entitled to 2 delegates to Central Council and Annual Congress. 107. A player wishing to transfer to a US GAA or Canada GAA club, from any jurisdiction outside the US GAA or Canada GAA control, must complete the Official Transfer Form of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association and submit this form to the Ladies Gaelic Football Association by 31st March of the current year. A player wishing to play in the Middle East GAA, Asia GAA and Australasian GAA Boards either in a temporary or permanent basis must complete a transfer form and submit this form to the National LGFA office in Dublin. The closing dates and other eligibility conditions shall be governed by the regulations of the relevant governing bodies of those GAA Boards. Should a player wish to return to her previous club, Home or a new club she must seek a transfer. She continues to be eligible to play county football as outlined in Rules 199 and 200. A player wishing to play in Britain requires a transfer if she has played club football elsewhere within the last 3 years. 108. The final date for transfers to New York shall be 31st March. 109. Players who intend to play on a temporary basis in our affiliated units in New York LGFA, US GAA and Canada GAA must complete an official permit form in duplicate and have it signed by the Club, County and National Secretaries. Permits for players wishing to play under the control of the NACB shall be issued at the grade of the last championship match played in the current or preceding year. The permit shall allow the players to play from the 31st March to 30th September, and shall not be granted later than the 1st July in any year. These players may play with their Home Club or County in their respective Championships. On a players return to Ireland she will be entitled to resume playing with her Club in Ireland, provided she sends notification to the Ladies Gaelic Football office of her return. She is not eligible to go again and play in New York or the North American Board areas in the same year.

21 110. The number of Permit Players permitted for any Club in the North American County Board shall be as follows: (a) A Club with 1 team – a maximum of 10 players (b) A Club with a 2nd team – a further 8 players (c) In the case of the Canadian Board Area the maximum number of Permit Players per Club shall be 10. (d) In the case of New York, the maximum number of Permit Players per team shall be 3. Clubs may also avail of the services of Players who have a valid current J1 Visa, provided a J1 permit has been obtained. 111. Players seeking permits to the USA and Canada, must have an appropriate insurance policy or be included in a Club Insurance Scheme covering injuries sustained while playing Ladies Gaelic Football. This policy shall indemnify the Ladies Gaelic Football Association against all claims arising from injury sustained while playing abroad. They must produce a copy of this policy when applying for the permit. 112. A player may play with her Home Club in Ireland and a Club in her European Country of study and vice versa, provided she is participating in a recognised programme of study in that European Country, or Ireland, for at least 3 months duration, and she obtains permission from Central Council. These players may play with their Home Club or County in their respective Championships or other competitions. This does not apply to Irish Home Club players studying in Ireland or Britain. 113. A weekend permit form is required for any player intending to assist a Club in a fixture under the jurisdiction of the European Board. The permit form must be signed by the Club, County Secretaries and National CEO before 4.00pm on the Wednesday preceding the game. The maximum number of authorised players to assist an EU Club in any weekend is one. The permit form is valid for one weekend only. However if there is a replay of the fixture for which the permit was granted, the permit remains valid for the replay. 114. County Boards, Councils of the Association outside of Ireland may apply in writing to Central Council for permission to deviate from specific rules where exceptional circumstances warrant it.

22 Clubs 115. A Club must have at least 11 playing members that are eligible to play in the age group or grade of football in which the Club intends fielding a team and 3 registered adult officials, before it can affiliate to the Association. Only a properly registered Club can take part in County, Provincial or National Competitions, or be entitled to representation on Committees, County Boards or Councils. 116. The Annual General Meeting of the Club shall be held on an annual basis on or before 1st December. The notice of the time and place of such a meeting shall be conveyed to members at least 5 days beforehand. The Annual General Meeting shall elect: (a) Chairperson (b) Vice Chairperson (c) Secretary (d) Registrar (e) Treasurer (f) Children’s Officer (by appointment) (g) Delegates to County Board and County Convention (h) Positions of Assistant Secretary, Assistant Treasurer, PRO, Development Officer, and Culture and Language Officer may also be elected. (i) An Executive or Management Committee, which shall comprise the above officers and any other members that the club may decide. These shall hold office until the conclusion of next Annual General Meeting. All Clubs shall notify the County Board of the date of their AGM at least 5 days prior to the meeting. 117. A report of the Annual General Meeting shall be sent to the County Board not later than 10 days after the meeting. 118. A Club shall not be named after a living person or any existing political or semi-political organisation. 119. A Club cannot take part in any official competition until the required affiliation fee for the year has been paid to the County Board, Provincial or Central Council, as appropriate. 120. Each affiliated Club shall purchase a copy of the Official Guide, or make themselves familiar with the rules of the Official Guide through 23 the website, and shall be bound by the rules and regulations contained therein. Every affiliated Club and registered member shall be deemed to have full knowledge of the rules of the Association. 121. The Club may refuse membership to any applicant in the interests of the Association. 122. Each Club shall annually register its players, officials, team mentors, (managers, selectors, trainers, coaches) on the official electronic system. It shall also register its Club Colours. The Club Registrar shall then register them with the County Registrar, Provincial Registrar and with Central Council. 123. Where a Club has two teams competing in Championship games within the County, it must name its 15 best players for the higher grade team for Championship games (A team). Should any other player outside of this list play in the Higher Grade Championship, they cannot play the Championship in the Lower Grade. 124. A Club that wins the Junior or Intermediate County Championship, must move up a grade within the County for the Championship the following year. 125. A Club that finishes runner-up in the County Senior, Intermediate or Junior Championship cannot be downgraded for the following years Championship unless in exceptional circumstances as decided by Central Council. 126. In the event of a clash of colours in an Inter-Club game, the away team must wear jerseys of a different colour. Should the game be played at a neutral venue, both teams must change or come to a mutual arrangement. In all games a goalkeeper must wear distinctive attire. Failure to do so shall incur a fine of €15. 127. In the event of a Club acquiring its own property, at least three Trustees shall be appointed. 128. Club and County rules may be supplemented by Bye-Laws, providing such Bye-Laws are not in conflict with the rules of the Association. 129. A resolution to amalgamate two or more Clubs shall be passed only at Special General/EGM Meetings of the Clubs concerned, specially summoned for the purpose of such resolution. It must be supported by three quarters of those present, voting and entitled to vote, and approved by the County Board. The players of the Clubs involved shall be deemed members of the amalgamated Club. 130. Should a Club be expelled from the Association and if any funds or assets remain after all debts and liabilities have been paid, these shall not be distributed amongst members, but shall be held in trust for the

24 appropriate County Board to be disposed of as the County Board shall direct. 131. A resolution to disband a Club shall be passed only at a General Meeting specially summoned for that purpose. It must be supported by a two- thirds majority of those present, voting and entitled to vote. If a Club is disbanded, any funds or assets remaining, after debts and liabilities have been discharged, shall be held in trust by the appropriate County Board to be disposed of as such County Board shall direct. Club Executive Committee 132. The affairs of the Club shall be managed by the Executive Committee which shall be answerable to the Full Club membership. The Club and Executive Committee shall have power to appoint sub-committees. 133. A decision by a meeting of the Executive Committee shall not be altered at a subsequent Executive Meeting, except on a motion supported by a two-thirds majority. 134. The Club and/or Executive Committee shall fill any vacancies that may arise on Committees elected or appointed by them. 135. The Executive Committee shall open a bank account on behalf of the Club. All cheques and other transactions on said account shall be signed by the Treasurer, and either the Assistant Treasurer, Chairperson or Secretary. Player Eligibility for Club, County and Province 136. A player may not play for more than one club except: (a) An Underage player may play for an exclusively Underage Club and a Club in Senior, Intermediate or Junior grade, with permission from the County Board. (b) An Underage player who has played with a solely Adult Club may play Underage football only with another Club that may have Adult and Underage teams, subject to County Board approval. (c) In exceptional circumstances, where Clubs are not in a position to field Under 12, Under 14, Under 16 or Under 18 teams from their own resources, permission may be obtained from the County Board, for the players of not more than two Clubs in this position, to form an Independent Under 12, Under 14, Under 16, or Under 18 team. The Independent team may not apply under Rule 136 (d) for permission for any player or players from another Club to play with the said Independent team. 25 Applications to form an Independent Under 12, Under 14, Under 16, or Under 18 team, must be made on an annual basis prior to the commencement of the competition or a date set earlier by the County Board, whichever is the earliest. The application shall set out the circumstances and details for such a request in full, and receive sanction of the County Board in charge. (d) Where a Club is unable to field a team in Under 12, Under 14, Under 16 or Under 18 age groups from their own resources, permission may be granted by the County Board for such a player or players, from that Club, to play with another Club or Clubs that is providing football at those age Groups, except as pertains in Rule 136 (c). Permission must be sought from the County Board on an annual basis and should be noted in the County Board minutes. (e) The County Board shall have the power to refuse or grant these underage permissions, taking into account the best interests of the Association, and subject to such conditions as the County Board may deem appropriate. (f) Students of Schools or Colleges only taking part in competitions confined to Schools or Colleges are not regarded as having played for a Club. 137. A Home Club means the Club in a player‘s Club Catchment Area as defined hereunder : (a) The Club in the CCA in which a player resides, or (b) The First Club with which she legally played in an officially recognised Club Competition or (c) The CCA in which her parents resided at the time of her birth A Club Catchment Area shall comprise the list of townlands under existing traditional parish boundaries from which the Club was entitled to draw its players. A list of such townlands shall be ascertained and recorded for each Club for the purpose of determining each Club boundary and the limit of the Club Catchment Area. Where a townland overlaps adjoining CCAs, players concerned have the option of playing for either Club. For the purpose of these rules a Club Catchment Area shall be known as CCA. A CCA, for the purpose of this rule, shall be subject to county boundaries. 26 Where a CCA overlaps a County or Counties, the Club or Clubs concerned have the option of playing within either County. The players concerned may play County football for either County subject to transfer regulations. CCAs shall not apply within cities or towns. However, players residing in cities and towns must play with a Club within the city or town unless exempt under Rule 137 to Rule 142. Players taking part in the Official Schools or Colleges competitions are exempted from this rule. 138. Where a player resides in a CCA where there is a Ladies Gaelic Football Club, she must play with that Club, unless she is exempted as in Rules 137 and 140. 139. Where there is a Club in a player’s CCA, but the Club is unable to provide football for her at Adult or Underage level, the player must register with her CCA Club. Where there is club football for her in another Club within her CCA, she may get permission to play or transfer to that Club. She cannot transfer or get permission to play with another Club outside her CCA whilst there is a Club in her CCA, unless she is exempted under Rule137, (Home Club). This permission is to be renewed on an annual basis. Where there is no Adult Club football within her CCA, and she wishes to seek permission to play with another Club she must apply on the Official Application Form and forward it to the County Board, Provincial Council and the National Grading Committee of Central Council. The Grading Committee will make the final decision subject to appeal to Central Council. The closing date for a player seeking permission to play Adult Football is 4 weeks prior to the commencement of the competition. The maximum number of players allowed to obtain permission to play for any Club shall be four. This permission is to be renewed on an annual basis. 140. A player who has played her first Club football in her native CCA and having since transferred to a New Club, following the disbandment of her Original Club, may, with Central Council permission, after taking all circumstances into consideration, remain with her new Club even if her Original Club reforms.

27 141. Not withstanding Rules 137 to 140, a player or players may apply in writing to the Management Committee of Central Council for permission to deviate from a specific rule or rules in exceptional circumstances and seek permission to play with another Club. Such permission may be granted where circumstances are deemed to warrant it, subject to approval by Central Council. 142. A player who has commenced a Club competition other than Championship in a County, shall be eligible to finish that competition for that Club, even though she is playing legally with a Club in another County, providing that the transfer is in order. 143. Players playing League football shall be subject to the regular Club and County qualifications and penalties. The status of players participating in league competitions shall not affect their Championship status. 144. Where a Club disbands, players from that Club may be eligible to complete the competitions commenced within the County with their New Club to which they have transferred. However, if any player has played Adult Championship football with the disbanded Club, she shall not play Adult Championship football with her New Club in the same season. If she has played Underage Championship football at a particular Age Group she cannot play Championship football at the same Age Group with her New Club in the same season. 145. Where a player has commenced a Club competition within a County, apart from Championship, but transfers to another Club within the County, she may complete that competition with her New Club. 146. When a player is transferred to a Club in another County, on or after 1st September in any year, she shall not be eligible to take part in the County, Provincial and All Ireland Club Championship of that year, unless she has played previously with the Club to which she has been transferred and subject to the provisions of Rule 139. 147. A player cannot play Club Championship for more than one Club in a Championship year unless exempted by Rules 136, or 188 or 189. 148. A player playing illegally for more than one Club within the County, shall be suspended for 3 months. 149. Should a Club or County play overage or illegal players they shall forfeit the game. The Chairperson, Secretary, team management and player(s) concerned are liable to suspension for up to 12 months, and the Club or County shall be fined €100 per offending player.

28 150. A Player playing illegally with two Clubs in different Counties, shall be suspended for 12 months. A team, mentor(s), Club Chairperson and Secretary playing such a player, is liable to be suspended for up to 12 months at the discretion of the Committee, Board or Council in charge, and shall forfeit the match to their opponents. 151. A player can only play for a County, provided she is resident in that County, and playing Club football within that County, unless she is exempted under Rules 137 or 140 for Club and Rules 199 and 200 for County. 152. A player is eligible to play for a Province in which she plays her Club or County football, or the Province in which she played her first Club or County football, or the Province in which she was born. Grading of Players and Counties 153. Central Council shall have power to grade or re-grade a County for Inter-County Championships. Should Central Council deem a County to be of Senior standard and should that County fail to fulfil its Senior Championship fixtures, the relevant county shall not be entitled to enter a team in the Junior or Intermediate Championship. 154. Counties who field Senior teams, must play their second best teams in Junior or Intermediate grade competitions organised by Provincial and Central Councils. They must not include on their second team: (a)  Players who have played for the County Senior team in the current Championship. (b) Players who have played for the County Senior team in the previous two years Championships unless they have been re- graded by Central Council. (c) Players and substitutes who played on the County team that won either of the previous two years All Ireland Intermediate or Junior finals, unless they have been re-graded by Central Council. 155. A County may not re-grade more than 5 players annually for Inter-County purposes except as applies in Rule 154. Applications for the re-grading of players must be received by Central Council by 1st May. 156. Members of a County team, who won the Intermediate or Junior Provincial Championship, except members of the All Ireland winning team, may participate in the following year’s Intermediate or Junior Inter- County Championship respectively.

29 157. All players declaring for a County whose Senior or Intermediate team played in the previous year’s Championship and which has now been graded as Intermediate or Junior, shall be eligible to play in the Intermediate or Junior Inter-County Championship. Schools and Colleges Committees 158. County Boards, Provincial or National Committees for the Schools and Colleges may be formed where feasible. Properly constituted Boards or Councils are allowed two voting delegates to the relevant County Board, Provincial and Central Councils of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association, and their rules shall be subject to the rules pertaining to the Association. 159. The Colleges Board, Committee or Council is required to affiliate to the appropriate Board or Council of the Association, with an affiliation fee, equivalent to that of a Club or County. Each fee shall cover all properly constituted schools or colleges registered with the Colleges Council. 160. The County Board, Provincial and National Committees of the Schools and Colleges are subject to the rules of the relevant Committee or Councils of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association. They shall retain authority in the administration of their own affairs. They shall have the same powers as those of The Ladies Gaelic Football Association in dealing with the organising and controlling of competitions within the Schools or Colleges. 161. The Academic Year shall be from 1st September to the 31st August of the following year. The AGM for the Schools Committee shall be held by 31st October and the HEC AGM in April. 162. An AGM at County, Provincial and National level must be held on an annual basis. The notice and time of such meetings, together with nominations and motions shall be conveyed to Schools and Colleges, at least 10 days prior for County Convention, and 4 weeks prior for the AGM of the Provincial and National meetings. The relevant Ladies Football County Board, Provincial Council and Central Council must be notified of the date, time and venue and a report of the meeting must be forwarded to the relevant County Board or Council. 163. Schools and Colleges shall pay an entry fee to enter competitions. The fee shall be as determined by the organising Committee or Council of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association. 164. Affiliations will be accepted from any School or College which has fifteen bona fide students. 165. In order for a player to qualify to compete in the HEC Competition she must be in full-time education. 30 Postgraduates must make a special application to the Management of the HEC, who shall decide on their eligibility. For students in An Garda Síochána who successfully complete their two year basic training in Templemore, the following eligibility condition applies: October and January intakes – Players entitled to compete for a maximum of three seasons. April and July intakes – Players entitled to compete for a maximum of two seasons. College identity cards should be available for inspection on request. 166. In order to qualify for the official Post Primary Schools competition a player must: (a) Attend a class in the school for 3 hours a day (b) Have an average monthly attendance of thirteen days prior to the game (c) Be Under 16 on 1st July of the Academic Year to compete in the Junior competition (d) Be Under 20 years of age on 1st July of the Academic Year for the Senior competition. 167. Schools must produce Birth Certificates of registered players if requested. County Board Convention 168. The Annual County Convention shall consist of the officers and members of the outgoing Board, three delegates from each registered Club, one of whom must be a current registered player, officers of the county at Provincial and Central Council and their sub-committees, sub-committees of the County Board and two delegates each from the School and College Committees. 169. Failure to hold the Annual Convention before 1st January, entails suspension, unless permission for a deferment is granted by Provincial or Central Council. 170. The County Convention shall elect officers of the County Board and delegates to attend Provincial and Central Council and Annual Congress. 171. Those entitled to vote at the County Convention shall be the outgoing officers together with three delegates from each registered Club, one of whom must be a current player, delegates to Provincial and Central Council, Officers of the County at Provincial and Central Council and their sub- committees who have voting rights, members of sub-committees within the County and two delegates each from the School and College Committees. 31 172. Clubs may forward motions and nominate candidates for positions on the County Board. Should all candidates nominated for a particular position fail to stand for election, nominations may be taken for those particular positions from those present at the meeting. 173. Clubs shall receive at least 4 weeks notice in writing of the date and venue of the County Convention, together with nomination and motion papers. These papers must be returned to the County Secretary at least 2 weeks before the County Convention. The Club Secretary should receive a copy of the Agenda, List of Nominees and Motions along with proposing Clubs at least 4 days prior to County Convention. 174. The Relevant Reports, Balance Sheets and Agendas shall be prepared by the County Board for County Convention. 175. County Convention shall have the right to make Bye-Laws as it deems necessary for the betterment of the Association within the County. They must be forwarded to Central Council by the 1st March and ratified at a Central Council Meeting after Congress. Such Bye-Laws shall not become operative until approved by Central Council. The Bye-Laws shall not conflict with the rules contained in the Official Guide. 176. Counties shall not send forward to Provincial Convention or Annual Congress any motion which was not approved by its County Board. County Board 177. The County Board should consist of: (a) Chairperson (b) Vice Chairperson (c) Secretary (d) Assistant Secretary (e) Treasurer (f) Assistant Treasurer (g) Registrar (h) PRO (i) Culture and Language Officer (j) Development Officer (k) Children’s Officer (Appointed) (l) Officers of Provincial and Central Councils from within the County

32 (m) Delegates to Provincial and Central Councils (n) Members of sub-committees of Provincial and Central Councils who have voting rights within their respective Councils and who are from within the County. (o) Chairpersons of sub-committees of the County Board (p) Three delegates from each affiliated Club, one of whom must be a current player Where a County Schools or Colleges Committee functions, it shall be entitled to two voting delegates on the County Board. The County Board shall hold office until the end of the next Annual Convention. It shall be subject to the authority of Provincial and Central Council. 178. The Executive of the County Board shall consist of the officers of the County Board as set out in Rule 177 (a) to (m) and shall have authority to submit motions to the County Board. 179. County Boards shall have within their respective Counties: (a) Control of Club affiliations and registrations (b) Responsibility for the Management of County teams and responsibility for ensuring that managers, mentors, trainers, team officials and coaches are registered with the Association (c) Control and organisation of all competitions within the County (d) Power to investigate irregularities and to warn, suspend, fine, or expel Clubs, teams or individuals, for breaches of the rules of the Association or Bye-Laws (e) Power to raise finance (f) Power to control, administer, and utilise funds and property of the Association within the County (g) Power to grade or re-grade players and teams at Club level County Boards must notify Provincial and Central Councils on the official grading form by the 1st March, of Clubs that are being proposed to be downgraded for Championship purposes within their Counties, and the reasons why they should be downgraded. The grading of Clubs shall be subject to approval of Central Council. (h) Authority to send nominations and motions to Provincial and Central Council.

33 180. The powers and functions of divisional and any other sub-committees shall be as defined by the County Board. They must forward their proposals for ratification to a full County Board meeting. However, Investigating Committees shall comply with the provisions contained in Rules 265 to 272. 181. County Boards may fine Clubs for failure to attend County Board meetings. The maximum fine shall be €50 per meeting. 182. The County Secretary must forward to Provincial and Central Councils, the name, address and telephone numbers, work and home where applicable, of all officers serving on the County Board. This information must be forwarded to the Provincial and Central Council Secretaries by the dates of Provincial Convention and Annual Congress respectively. 183. County Secretaries shall, prior to Annual Congress, furnish to Central Council, the names of the County delegates on the Council for the coming year. 184. County Boards must by the 1st February each year (a) Affiliate to Provincial and Central Councils (b) Indicate the grades of Inter-County Championships they intend to participate in for that year. 185. The County Board shall be entitled to retain gate receipts of any competition under its control as well as home games in the group stages of the National Leagues. 186. County Boards shall open a bank account as soon as monies are acquired. All cheques and other transactions on the account must be signed by the Treasurer, and either the Assistant Treasurer, Chairperson or Secretary. 187. County Boards shall furnish to their Provincial Councils by 15th January each year, a balance sheet of the County accounts together with supporting bank statements for the previous financial year. Failure to do so shall incur a fine of €500 and may involve suspension until they are furnished. 188. County Boards may allow players from three Junior Clubs, or, one Junior and one Intermediate Club to amalgamate to form a Senior team, without losing their Junior or Intermediate status. An amalgamated team which wins the County Senior Championship shall be permitted to represent the County Board in the Provincial and All Ireland Club Championship. 189. County Boards may allow Junior and Intermediate Clubs participate in 34 Championships of a higher grade without losing their current status. However, should the Club win the Higher-Grade Championship, it must represent its County in the Higher-Grade Provincial Club Championship even though it may also have won the County Championship in the lower grade. The team that finishes as runner-up in the lower grade Championship will then represent the County in the Provincial Club Championship. 190. County Boards must send forward a team for Inter-County Adult Championships. Failure to do so may result in the entire County being suspended for 12 months. The suspension shall start on the date on which the match should have been played. 191. County colours must be registered with and approved by Central Council. In the event of a clash of colours, an alternative combination of the original colours or the Provincial colours must be worn unless otherwise agreed. The goalkeeper must wear distinctive attire in all games. Failure to comply with this rule shall involve a fine of €50. 192. County Boards shall decide the manner of selecting County teams. The teams be selected from players living in the County and from eligible declared non-resident players. Where there is no Adult Inter-County football played, Central Council may give permission for a player to play with a neighbouring County in the same Province. This permission shall be reviewed on an annual basis. 193. County Boards shall have the power to suspend for a period of 6 months any player who refuses to travel or play for the County. 194. County Boards that have indicated their intention to compete in the National League or Championship and which subsequently withdraw prior to the commencement of the competition, but after the draw is made, shall be penalised by a fine of €200. 195. Any County team giving a walkover after the commencement of the National League or Championships, shall incur a fine up to €5,000. The governing body shall review their participation in that competition. 196. County Officials responsible for fielding illegal teams in Inter-County competitions shall be suspended. 197. A County, that plays a player in a competition where that player has already played in the same competition with another County, shall forfeit the match. The officials concerned may also be suspended. 198. In counties where County Boards do not exist, Clubs shall affiliate to the Provincial Council, or in the absence of a Provincial Council, to Central Council, who shall decide in which competitions such Clubs shall take part. 35 Home County 199. A Home County means: (a) A player’s Native County ie, the County in which the player’s parents were resident at the time of her birth, or (b) The County in which she resides and in which she plays her Club football or (c) The County in which she participated in officially recognised competition for the first time. For the purpose of this rule, a student taking part in official Schools or Colleges competitions is not deemed to have declared for any particular County, unless she plays with the School or College in County Club League or Championship competitions. 200. A player who resides and plays Club football outside her Home County may declare for her Home County for Inter-County and Interprovincial competitions. If she makes such a declaration, she may not play for any other County except her Home County while the declaration binds, unless her Home County fails to field a team in the grade or she transfers to the County in which she now resides and plays. Provincial Convention 201. Provincial Convention shall be held annually by 1st February. 202. County Secretaries shall receive at least 4 weeks notice, in writing, of the date and venue of Provincial Convention, together with nomination and motion papers. These papers shall be returned to the Provincial Secretary at least 2 weeks before Convention. County Secretaries should receive a copy of the agenda and a list of nominees and motions, indicating the proposing County, at least 4 days prior to the Provincial Convention. 203. The outgoing Council shall prepare an agenda, relevant reports, balance sheets and minutes of the previous year’s Convention for the upcoming Convention. These shall be considered at Convention and, when passed, the Secretary’s copy shall be signed by the Provincial President. 204. The Provincial President shall be elected for a 3 year term by secret ballot and shall not hold office for more than 3 consecutive years. 205. Those entitled to vote at Convention shall be (a) Members of the outgoing Council

36 (b) Officers of Central Council from within the Province (c) Members of National and Provincial sub-committees who hold voting rights in their respective Councils (d) Three delegates from each affiliated County, one of whom shall be a current player (e) Two delegates from each of the Provincial School and College Committees. 206. Provincial Convention shall elect by ballot: (a) President (b) Vice-President (c) President Elect for one year prior to her/his term as President (d) Secretary (e) Assistant Secretary (f) Treasurer (g) Assistant Treasurer (h) Registrar (i) PRO (j) Cultural and Language Officer (k) Development Officer It may also elect any Committee it deems necessary for the promotion of Ladies Gaelic Football. 207. Candidates for positions on Provincial Councils shall be nominated by County Boards. Should all candidates nominated for a particular position fail to stand for election, nominations may be taken from those present at the meeting. Candidates seeking positions who are unable to attend the meeting shall indicate in writing, their intention to go forward for election, and shall be added to the list of nominees. 208. The Ex-President shall continue as an ex-officio member of the Council, with voting rights, for one year after her/his term of office expires. 209. The Provincial Vice-President shall be entitled to act as a substitute, in the absence of the Provincial President, at Central Council meetings. Provincial Council 210. Provincial Council shall consist of: (a) President

(b) Vice-President 37 (c) President Elect for one year prior to her/his term as President (d) Secretary (e) Assistant Secretary (f) Treasurer (g) Assistant Treasurer (h) Registrar (i) PRO (j) Cultural and Language Officer (k) Development Officer (l) Three delegates from each Affiliated County, one of whom must be a current player (m Two delegates from the Provincial Schools Council (n) Two delegates from the Provincial Colleges Council (o) Officers from Central Council from within the Province (p) Members of sub-committees of Central Council who have voting rights at Central Council. 211. The Executive of the Provincial Council shall consist of the officers of the Provincial Council as set out in Rule 210 (a) to (k) inclusive. 212. Provincial Council Secretaries shall give 14 days notice to all members for Provincial Council meetings. In emergency situations shorter notice shall suffice. 213.  Provincial Councils shall present to Annual Congress a report of Provincial activities during the year, audited financial report and balance sheet and a list of all registered Clubs, Counties, Schools and Colleges within the Province. 214. Any Provincial Council that fails to furnish an audited financial report and balance sheet, shall be suspended. 215. Central Council shall take control of the workings of the Association within the Province until such accounts are furnished. 216. Provincial Councils shall have within their respective Provinces: (a) Control of County affiliations and registrations (b) Responsibility for the Management and selection of Provincial Teams (c) Responsibility for the Organisation and Control of Provincial competitions 38 (d) Power to investigate irregularities and to warn, suspend, disqualify, fine or expel Clubs, Teams, Counties or Individuals for breaches of the rules of the Association or Bye-Laws (e) Power to raise finances

(f) Power to make Bye-Laws which shall not be at variance with the Rules of the Association and must be submitted to Central Council for approval

(g) Control all other business pertaining to the Association in the Province. 217. The Management Committee of Provincial Council shall be entitled to submit motions to Provincial Convention and Annual Congress. Motions, apart from those submitted by the Management of Provincial Council being forwarded to Annual Congress, must have the approval of Provincial Council. 218. The powers and functions of sub-committees set up by Provincial Council shall be as defined by Provincial Council. Investigating Committees shall comply with the provisions contained in Rules 265 to 272. 219. Officers of Provincial Council shall be entitled to attend meetings of any County Board or Club Committee including Executive Committee or sub- committees thereof within their jurisdiction. 220. In the event of suspension of a County Board, the Provincial Council shall be empowered to exercise all the powers of the County Board within the County. Provincial Championships 221. Provincial Championships shall be open to all affiliated Counties within the Province. Where a County Board does not exist, Provincial Councils shall have the power to permit a properly affiliated Club or Clubs to represent the County in the Provincial and All Ireland Championships. 222. For playing purposes Provincial Councils shall recognise existing County boundaries. However, players in a Club or a CCA that overlaps a County boundary may play County football in either County or Province, subject to transfer regulations. In cases where the CCA boundary of the Club overlaps Provinces, the player has the option of playing for either Province. Britain shall be regarded as a Province for this purpose. 223. A Club which wins the Provincial Junior or Intermediate Championship must move up a grade for the following year’s Provincial Championship.

39 However, a club which wins the British Intermediate Club Championship may play in the British Intermediate Provincial and All Ireland championship the following year unless they won the All Ireland Intermediate championship whereby they are automatically deemed to be of Senior standard. A Club that wins the Junior or Intermediate County Championship in Britain, must move up a grade within the County for the next year’s Championship. Annual Congress 224. Annual Congress should be held on or before 1st April each year. The venue for Congress shall be selected by Central Council or Congress. 225. County Board, Provincial and HEC Secretaries, shall receive at least 4 weeks notice in writing of the date and venue of Annual Congress, together with nomination and motion papers. The notification should show the names of the outgoing officers and the latest date for the return of these papers for inclusion in the Congress agenda. The returned nomination forms must be signed by the Secretary or authorised official of the nominating body. 226. Prior to Annual Congress, each County, Provincial and HEC Secretary shall be supplied with copies of the agenda and a list of nominees and motions indicating the proposing County or HEC. 227. All nominations, for officership of Central Council, shall come from County Boards, through the County Secretary or Authorised Official.

Should all candidates nominated for a particular position fail to stand for election, nominations may be taken from delegates in attendance. Candidates for positions, who are unable to attend the meeting shall indicate in writing their intention to go forward for election and shall be added to the list of nominees. 228. Those entitled to vote at Congress shall be:

(a) Members of the Outgoing Council (b) Former Presidents of the Association (c) Three Delegates from each affiliated County, one of whom must be a current player

(d) Two Delegates from the National Post Primary Schools Committee

(e) Two Delegates from the National HEC 40 (f) Members of Central Council sub-committees who have voting rights. (All Stars, Appeals, Disciplinary and Fixtures) 229. The functions of Annual Congress are: (a) To consider reports, audited financial statements and balance Sheets of Central Council and its subsidiary Committees for the preceding year (b) To consider reports and audited financial statements and balance sheets of each Provincial Council (c) To elect the President Elect by secret ballot, one year prior to her/ his term as President. The term shall not be for more than three consecutive years. However, s/he may stand for re-election at the end of her/his second year in office to serve two consecutive terms (d) To elect by ballot the Assistant Secretary, Treasurers, Development Officer, Cultural and Language Officer and other officers it deems necessary. 230. Central Council, through Annual Congress, shall have the power to appoint a full time Chief Executive Officer who shall not be entitled to vote and who shall be subject to the terms and conditions as laid down by Central Council. 231. Central Council, through its Chief Executive Officer, shall report to Congress on all activities of the Association for the preceding year. 232. Annual Congress shall decide the policies to be pursued by the Association in the following year, with particular emphasis on the National aspects of the Association. 233. Annual Congress shall have the power to enact, amend or rescind rules. 234. A motion to remove or amend an existing rule must be supported by a two-thirds majority of those present, voting, and entitled to vote. 235. Congress may refer a motion for discussion to Central Council. The ensuing recommendations, if they propose to alter an existing rule, must be proposed in the form of a motion before the next Congress for approval or otherwise. 236. Proposals, to enact new, or amend existing rules, shall give the full text of the proposed addition or amendment, and also quote the numbers of any other rules affected. Annual Congress or Central Council may, without taking from their meaning, rephrase and relocate any such motions passed, before inserting them in The Official Guide.

41 237. New and amended rules shall become operative one month from the date of Annual Congress unless Congress decides otherwise, in the interest of Ladies Gaelic Football. 238. Motions passed at Annual Congress shall be sent to all County Secretaries within 4 weeks of Congress and updated on the website. The new official guide to be uploaded to the LGFA website within 8 weeks of congress. Central Council 239. The Central Council shall be the supreme governing body of the Association from Congress to Congress, and the sole final authority to interpret the rules. Its jurisdiction shall extend over all aspects of the Association worldwide, and it shall have power to rule on special cases arising between Congresses, even though there may be no particular rule of the Association covering the cases in question. Central Council shall meet at least 4 times per year. 240. Central Council decisions on all matters concerning the Association are legal and binding on its members and shall not be subject to appeal except as provided in Rule 297. 241. Central Council shall consist of: (a) President who shall be elected for a three year term but may stand for re-election at the end of her/his second year in office to serve two consecutive terms (b) President Elect for one year (c) Former Presidents of the Association who are active at County, Provincial or Central Council level

(d) Presidents of Provincial Councils who shall be representing their respective Provinces (e) Joint Treasurers (f) CEO and Assistant Secretary (g) Cultural and Language Officer (h) Development Officer (i) Three Delegates from each Affiliated County, one of whom must be a current player (j) Two Delegates from the National HEC (k) Two Delegates from the National Post Primary Schools Council (l) Two delegates from International affiliated Units of the Association

42 (m) Members of sub-committees of Central Council who have voting rights, (All Stars, Appeals, Disciplinary and Fixtures). 242. The Management Committee shall consist of Officers as outlined from (a) to (h) in Rule 241. The Management Committee shall meet every two months or more often if necessary. 243. The Management Committee of Central Council shall be entitled to submit motions to Annual Congress, providing all such motions are forwarded to County Boards prior to Congress. 244. Any member of Central Council Management Committee who fails to attend three consecutive meetings without giving just cause shall, after due notice, automatically cease to be a member of Central Council for that year. Sub-Committee members are also subject to this rule. 245. The President, President Elect, Former Presidents and Ex-President shall not be represented by proxies at Central Council meetings. 246. Central Council CEO/Assistant Secretary, shall give 14 days notice to all members of Central Council meetings. In emergency situations shorter notice shall suffice. 247. In an emergency situation the President, President Elect, Ex-President, Former Presidents, Assistant Secretary, and Officers of Central Council shall have the power to rule on any situation that may develop. 248. Officers at Central Council shall be entitled to attend meetings of their respective Provincial Council, County Board or Club Committees. 249. Central Council shall have: (a) Complete control of County Affiliations, Registrations and the Injury Fund Scheme (b) Responsibility for the Organisation and complete control of All Ireland Inter-County, All Ireland Club Championships and National Leagues. Where a School or HEC fails to fulfil its duties, Central Council shall take control of the All Ireland Post Primary School and/or HEC competitions (c) Power to investigate any irregularities and to warn, suspend, fine or expel Clubs, Teams, Counties, Provincial Councils or Individuals for breaches of the rules or Bye-Laws of the Association. (d) Power to examine the structure, grading and amalgamation of Clubs in all Counties and to reclassify and re-grade them where they deem necessary.

43 250. Central Council or Congress shall appoint sub-committees in addition to an appointee of the National President. The sub-committees shall elect a Chairperson and Secretary from within their respective Committees. (a) A Fixtures Committee which should include two nominees from each Province. (b) A Disciplinary Committee which should consist of two nominees from each Province. The Disciplinary Committee shall deal with all matters of discipline and shall have the power to exonerate impose suspensions, fines or such sanctions as they deem necessary. There shall be a right of appeal against their decisions to Central Council. (c) A National Appeals Committee which should consist of two nominees from each Province. The National Appeals Committee shall deal with appeals from or decisions of Provincial Council and shall have the power to impose penalties, fines, suspensions, exonerate, or review sanctions where strict adherence to the original decision imposed undue hardship and for the overall good of the Association, or re-fix games as they deem necessary. There shall be a right of appeal against their decisions to Central Council. (d) Any Committee as deemed necessary. 251. Should a vacancy occur on any National Committee, such vacancy shall be filled by a nomination from the respective Provincial Council subject to ratification by Central Council. Nomination forms should be sent from Provincial Councils to County Boards for names of Nominees for Central Council sub-committees Central Council shall only appoint members to the sub-committees from nominations submitted from Provincial Councils. 252. A member shall not serve on more than 1 sub-committee at the same time. 253. Central Council shall be responsible to Annual Congress for implementing any policies decided by the preceding Congress. 254. Prior approval of Central Council shall be obtained for any action which may affect the general policy of the Association. 255. Central Council shall have the power to review the amount of fees, fines and penalties, as referred to in the rules.

44 256. In the event of suspension of a Provincial Council, Central Council shall be empowered to take control of all the affairs of the Association within that Province. 257. Central Council may permit or instruct a County or Counties outside a Province to take part in the Provincial Championships of any particular Province. 258. Central Council, in consultation with the Provincial Council of Britain or any other relevant authority, shall decide what areas in Britain constitute a County for the purpose of participating in the Championship of Britain. 259. Central Council shall be entitled to take the gate receipts of All Ireland qualifiers, All Ireland and National League play-offs, quarter-finals, semi- finals and finals, and other competitions as decided from time to time. 260. If Central Council is satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that a breach of rule by a Member, Club, or County occurred by default and without knowledge, Central Council in the interest of natural justice, may impose such penalty, if any, as is deemed appropriate. 261. Central Council may summon a Special Congress should the need arise. 262. Employees of the Association, who may attend meetings of any unit of the Association, or who are required to be present at such meetings as Committee members, shall not have voting rights in the determination of any issue or in any election process at such meetings 263. The All Star team shall be chosen by two nominated selectors from each of the four Provinces as well as the National President. Three players shall be nominated for each position. All nominees shall be invited to attend an Annual Presentation Banquet. The names of the All Stars shall be announced at the Banquet.

Each County may submit their All Star team for the guidance of the Selection Committee prior to the selection of the team. Representative(s) as nominated by any sponsor may sit with the Committee in an advisory capacity as decided by Central Council. 264. Central Council shall have the power to implement any changes in the GAA playing rules to apply within Ladies Gaelic Football, even if such rules were passed after the Ladies Gaelic Football Congress. Investigations 265. Any alleged irregularities including the constitution of a team taking part in any competition may be investigated on the request of any member of the Committee, Board or Council in charge. Such a request shall set out the points for investigation. 45 266. A motion to carry out an investigation into any matter must be proposed and seconded and must have the support of a simple majority of the relevant Committee, Board or Council entitled to vote.

However, in an emergency situation the Management Committee of Provincial or Central Council by a majority decision shall have the power to pass a motion to carry out an investigation.

The Investigating Committee shall report back to a meeting of Provincial/ Central Council for decision. 267. The Committee, Board or Council shall decide the composition and terms of reference of the Investigating Committee. 268. The parties shall be notified of any proposed investigation in writing. They must be given the opportunity to present their case and call relevant witnesses. 269. The Investigating Committee shall report its findings to the parent Committee, Board or Council. 270. If following an investigation, any irregularities including illegal constitution is proved, the prescribed penalties for the offences involved shall be enforced. 271. In the interest of natural justice, a member of an Investigating Committee cannot sit on the Committee, Board or Council in charge that shall give judgement on the Investigating Committee’s findings. 272. A Member, Club, County or Council may be penalised following an investigation. All parties shall be officially notified of the decision at the meeting or by telephone, or other means by the Committee, Board or Council in charge. This shall be followed by notification in writing, fax or electronic mail within 5 working days. Suspension and Reinstatement 273. The suspension of a player for a playing offence means suspension from: (a) Playing in games (b) Refereeing (c) Acting as a match official, water carrier, runner, physio or first aider (d) Being in the dressing room with her team mates on match day (e) Being in the team bench area (f) Being inside the fencing of an enclosed pitch, during the course of the game. Penalty – additional 4 weeks suspension. A suspended player may train with her team. 46 274. A player who is suspended and takes part in a game, including a challenge or tournament game, shall be suspended for an additional 4 weeks from the date of expiry of the original suspension 275. A player or team official using insulting or threatening language, or abusing a match official shall when requested, give their name to the referee and be suspended for a minimum of 4 weeks. Should the offence be sufficiently serious, the whole team may be disqualified from the competition. 276.  A player leaving the field without the referee’s permission, or refusing to continue the game, is liable to be suspended for 6 months. 277. A player ordered off the field by the referee for 2 Yellow Card offences, shall be suspended for the duration of that game, which shall include Extra Time when played. 278. Any team playing a suspended player shall forfeit the match to its opponents. 279. A player, who has been sent off for a straight Red Card offence during the calendar year (January – December) which incurs a minimum 4 week suspension to the date of selecting the All Stars, shall not be considered for an All Star award. Should her suspension carry over into the following year, it shall not debar her from being eligible for consideration of an All Star award for that year. 280. A team leaving the field before the end of a match without the referee’s permission or refusing to continue the game is liable to forfeit the match,and be suspended for 6 months.

Any players willing to continue with the match shall give their names to the referee. 281.  Should any Club or County play Overage Players in Underage Competitions, they shall forfeit the game and the officials, team management, mentors and players shall be liable to suspension for 12 months. 282. Should any player, official or supporter of a team be responsible for the termination of a game, the team concerned shall be liable to suspension. 283. Where the relevant Committee, Board or Council proposes to adjudicate on any disciplinary matter, other than a case in which the automatic 2 Yellow Card suspension applies, it shall give the Member, Club, Committee, Board or Council alleged to have offended, notice of the alleged offence. The member or body may make written representation or seek an oral hearing in relation to the offence. 47 In the absence of written representation or personal appearance at the hearing, the relevant Committee, Board or Council may make a decision on the evidence before them. 284. In urgent cases between meetings where a player has been sent off, the following procedure shall apply: (a) There shall be an obligation on the player, her Club or County Board as appropriate, to request the Committee, Board, or Council, responsible to clarify if the minimum 4 weeks suspension applies. (b) The Committee, Board, or Council on receipt of such a request, shall make emergency arrangements to check and advise on the position of the player concerned, pending a meeting of the said Committee, Board or Council. (c) If it is clear from the referees report that the minimum 4 weeks suspension applies, the penalty shall be decided between meetings. She shall be entitled to play on the expiration of the 4 weeks from the date of the game. (d) The suspension shall be recorded at the next meeting of the Committee, Board or Council. 285. Suspension for an offence, other than a playing offence, means suspension from all privileges and competitions under the control of the Association, but not from membership of the Association. The date of suspension shall be from the date that the Committee, Board or Council make the decision. 286. Non-Playing Members who are suspended will not be allowed to: (a) Hold officership of the Association or coach a team (b) Be on the field of play during a game which includes the warm up and cool down (c) Be in the team bench area during a game (d) Be in the dressing room (e) Be inside the fence of an enclosed pitch during the course of a game (f) Referee games (g) Act as a match official This rule does not forbid a suspended member from being present at a game or training session, or drawing up a training schedule for implementation by fellow selectors.

48 287.  Members other than members suspended for a playing offence, who take part in the affairs of the Association while under suspension, shall be suspended for a further period of 6 months from the date of the expiry of the original suspension. 288. Any member of the Association found guilty of conduct calculated to bring the Association into disrepute shall be liable to expulsion or suspension by the Committee, Board or Council concerned. 289. Any person expelled by the GAA would also be expelled from the Ladies Gaelic Football Association. 290. Where a definite period of suspension is imposed by a Committee, Board or Council, reinstatement takes place automatically at the termination of the period of suspension. 291. The term month means 4 weeks. Where a suspension commences on a Sunday it ends at midnight on Saturday. 292. Where a definite penalty is not stated for any breaches of the rules, the power to impose penalties is vested in properly constituted Committees, County Boards, Provincial or Central Councils. 293. All motions for suspension shall be proposed and seconded, except where County Bye-Laws make alternative provision, or where a definite minimum period of suspension is provided in the Official Guide. Where there is a tie in the voting the Chairperson shall have the casting vote. 294. The Committee, Board or Council in charge shall take into consideration the gravity and repetition of offences in each case and shall, where appropriate, impose a longer term of suspension other than the minimum penalties. 295. All suspensions must be notified to the relevant County Boards, Provincial and Central Councils. Objections and Appeals 296. There shall be no appeal to any Committee, Board or Council, or to any outside body on any matter except as provided in these rules. 297. There shall be no appeal against decisions of Central Council, except where fresh evidence is forthcoming that was not available at the time of the original decision. 298. Members, Clubs, Divisional and County Boards and Provincial Councils have the right of objection or appeal against the decisions of higher bodies.

49 The Committee, Board or Council to whom the objection or appeal is made, shall have the power to award games, review or impose penalties, fines, suspensions, or other such sanctions as they deem necessary. An objection or appeal must in the first instance go to: (a) The Committee, Board or Council directly senior to the body against whose ruling the objection, counter objection or appeal is being made. (b) Central Council if it is any appeal, or objection or counter objection concerning decisions of sub-committees of Central Council. (c) Central Council if it is an appeal, objection or counter objection to decisions of the National Management Committee. 299. All objections, counter objections and appeals must set out the exact grounds for objection, counter objection or appeal, and quote the rules alleged to have been infringed. If an incorrect rule number is given, but it is clear from the context which rule is involved, the Committee, Board or Council hearing the case may deem it to be in order. If the objection or counter objection is concerning the playing of overage players, the Club or County being objected to, shall provide birth certificate(s) for the hearing. 300. Objections, counter objections or appeals, together with a fee as in Rules 302 and 303, must be lodged with the secretary of the Committee, Board or Council being appealed to within 5 working days of the match or decision under challenge. 301. International Units of the Association shall be allowed 7 working days, together with a fee as in Rule 303 when objecting, counter objecting or appealing to the National Appeals Committee or to Central Council. 302. Objections, counter objections and appeals to County Boards must be accompanied by a fee of €100. 303. Objections, counter objections or appeals to the Provincial or National Appeals Committees, or Provincial or Central Councils, must be accompanied by a fee of €300. 304. Where an objection, counter objection or appeal succeeds, the fee shall be returned to the objecting or appealing party. 305. Where the objection, counter objection or appeal is withdrawn, the fee shall be retained by the Committee, Board or Council to which it was submitted.

50 306. The Secretary of the body with which the objection or appeal has been lodged shall on receipt of same, notify the Secretary of the Club, Committee, Board or Council against which it has been made, and enclose a copy of the original objection or appeal. 307 In appeal cases, the information should include the following details: (a) The original circumstance(s) of the alleged breach of rule(s) (b) The rule numbers that were allegedly breached (c) The penalties, if any, that were imposed (d) A brief outline of any previous appeals and results (e) The reasons for the latest appeal quoting the rules that were alleged to have been infringed and all other information and documentation relevant to the appeal. 308. The Chairperson, in consultation with other officers of the body to whom the objection, counter objection or appeal is lodged, may decide on whether to call a meeting or make a decision on the facts as presented to him/her outside of a meeting. 309. County Boards, Committees or Councils may rule out any objection, counter objection or appeal, if in their opinion, such objection, counter objection or appeal is petty, or is in any way detrimental to the best interests of the Association. County Boards, Committees or Councils should therefore discourage petty objections. 310. Interested parties should be given 3 working days notice of the meeting at which the objection, counter objection or appeal is to be heard. In emergency or exceptional circumstances shorter notice will suffice. In the event of an interested party being unable to attend, s/he may send a representative providing such representative is a member of the Association. However, where the representative is a parent or guardian of an Underage Player, they do not have to be a member of the Association. 311. All interested parties, as defined, shall be officially notified of the result of the appeal or objections at the meeting or by telephone. This should be followed by notification in writing, fax or electronic mail. 312. Should a meeting be called two representatives from each party, who shall be members of the Association, may attend. The parties may be interviewed separately. However, if they fail to attend without reasonable explanation the hearing may be held.

51 313. After presenting their case, the representatives should be asked to leave the room while a decision is being made. They should be recalled at a later stage to be informed of the outcome. 314. Neither team concerned in an objection, counter objection or appeal shall take further part in the same knockout competition, until the alleged infringements have been dealt with by the Committee, Board or Council in charge. Teams may continue playing in competitions organised on a League basis, pending the outcome of the objections or appeal by the Committee, Board or Council in charge. 315. In the interests of natural justice any member of a Club, Committee, County Board, Provincial or Central Council, who was party to imposing disciplinary measures in a particular case, cannot sit on an appeal body at Committee, County Board, Provincial or Central Council, where an appeal against their decision is being heard. This also applies to members who may hold officership. 316. Any Individual, Committee, Board or Council adjudged guilty of tendering false or forged evidence, shall be suspended for 12 months. 317. A Non-Playing Member who is suspended shall have the right of appeal. Once the appeal is received by the relevant Committee, Board or Council, the suspension shall be lifted. Should the appeal be unsuccessful or withdrawn, the date of suspension shall be from the date the appeal was decided or withdrawn. 318. Central Council may, prior to Congress, consider and adjudicate on applications for re-instatement where strict application of the rules has resulted in hardship. Transfers 319. A player who wishes to leave one club and play with another Club must apply for a transfer. However, a player who has not played League or Championship football for a period of 3 years is exempt from transfer rules provided other eligibility conditions are satisfied. 320. All transfer applications must be made on the official transfer form. It must be completed, properly signed and sent to the relevant secretary. Evidence to prove an address may be requested by a Club, County Board, Provincial or Central Council or sub-committees thereof. Where the relevant body is not satisfied with the evidence provided, the transfer may be refused.

52 A player transferred to a Club, who, at any time within a period of 6 months from the date of transfer, is found to be no longer resident within the Club Catchment Area, may be liable to suspension, and the Club may also be suspended. 321.  A transfer requiring Provincial or Central Council sanction, and which has been approved by the Club and County Board, may be approved by the Provincial Secretary, or CEO, subject to ratification at the next Provincial or Central Council meeting. 322. A transfer becomes effective as soon as it is approved by the appropriate authority, unless it is being contested at a lower level than Central Council. Where it is being contested, the contesting party must lodge an appeal as per Rules 298 to 303 as appropriate, or before the player is due to play her first competitive game with her New Club or County, whichever is the shorter period. Where an appeal is lodged, the player concerned cannot play with her New Club or County until the appeal has been decided. 323. A player who leaves a County permanently and who wishes to become involved in the playing activities of another County must: (a) Obtain a transfer from her Provincial Council, if she intends to participate with another County in the same Province. (b) Obtain a transfer from Central Council, if her intended participation is with a County outside of her former Province. Inter Club Transfers 324. A player, who wishes to leave one Club to join another in the same County, must apply to the County Board on the official transfer form for a transfer. This also applies to a disbanded Club unless governed by Rule 319. 325. The County Board shall have power to refuse or grant such transfers taking into account the best interests of the Association. 326. A player seeking an Inter–Club transfer outside the County in which she last played, must seek her release from her former Club by completing the official transfer form. The form must be signed by her former Club and County Secretaries, who must forward it to the Secretary of the County to which she is transferring, who in turn must forward to the relevant Provincial Secretary or CEO. Eligibility conditions are also governed by Rule 146.

53 327. If the player is residing in the CCA of the Club to which she is transferring, or if she is returning to her Home Club, the County Secretary may sign the transfer form and forward it to the Provincial or National Secretary as outlined in Rule 323. 328. If the player is NOT residing in the CCA of the Club to which she is transferring, or if she is not returning to her Home Club, the transfer must be: (a) Discussed and approved by the County Board to which she is transferring, (b) The transfer form endorsed to that effect, signed by the County Secretary and (c) Forwarded to the Provincial Secretary or CEO as outlined in Rule 323. 329. Where a players former Club or County Secretary refuses to sign the transfer form, the player should contact the County or Provincial Secretary or the National CEO as appropriate. 330. When the transfer has been sanctioned, one copy will be returned to the applicant, who shall present it to the Club to which she has been transferred. The Club shall register the player in the usual manner. Inter County Transfers 331. The procedure to be followed to obtain an Inter-County Transfer is: (a) The player must seek her release from her former County Secretary by completing the official transfer form. (b) The Secretary shall sign it and forward it to the Secretary of the relevant Committee, Board or Council as outlined in Rule 323. 332. An Inter-County transfer becomes effective as soon as it is approved by the appropriate authority. The appropriate Secretary or CEO shall sign the transfer form and return a copy to the applicant and the County Secretary. 333. In all applications for transfers, the status of the player shall be specified. The transfer application must also show the date of the last competitive and Championship matches in which she played. Schools and Colleges competitions are exempted. 334. A player cannot play for two different Counties in the same competition.

54 Index National Appeals Sub-committee 250 (Note: References are to rule numbers, Natural justice 215 not page numbers) Non-playing members 317 Notification of decision 311 Affiliation 91 Penalty for false or forged evidence Central Council 249 316 Club 72, 91, 115, 119, 120, 198 Period of notice 310 County Board 179, 184, 198 Procedure 298–300 Fee payment 91 Right of appeal of non-playing International Units 91, 105–9 suspended member 317 Officers (County, Provincial & Central) 56 Association 8–31 Provincial Council 216 Aims and Objectives 3–7 Schools/Colleges 91, 159, 164 Amateur Status 13 Voting at Congress 56, 228 Association Name 1 Bye-Laws 128 All Stars 263, 279 Children’s Officer 22 Eligibility 279 Definition 2 Selection process 263 Disbandment of club 131 Sub-committee 228, 241 Election of officers 60 Expulsion of club from Association Amalgamations 188 130 Finance 32–40 Annual Congress see Congress Investigations 16 Official Rules and Regulations 120 Anti-Doping 94 Sponsorship 95–103 Use of corporate logo 97 Appeals & Objections 296–318 Against decision of higher bodies Attire 98–101 298 Clash of Colours 126, 191 Can’t play further in knockout comp. Goalkeeper 126, 191 until decision final 314 Markings 100–101 Correspondence 14, 306–7 Sponsorship 98, 99 Counter objections 308–310 Discouragement of petty appeals/ Britain 109 objections 309 Determination of County areas 258 Fees 302–5 Provincial Championships 222 Fresh evidence 297 see also International Units Interested parties 310, 311 Lodgement within 5 days of decision Bye-Laws: 300 Club 128 Lodgement within 7 days of decision County 175, 293 (International) 301 Definition 2 55 Submission to Central Council by Investigations 16, 17, 249, 260 1st March 175 Negotiation and administration of naming rights 96 Canada: Notice of Meetings 246 Canadian GAA Board 110 Officers 230, 241–2 see also International Units Officer’s failure to attend meetings 244 CCA 2, 137–40 Paid employees 65, 262 Overlapping town or county borders Permission to deviate from rules 93, 137, 222 141 Permission to remain with New Club Permission to remain with New Club 140 140 Player must play in CCA she resides Power to attend meetings at Prov/ 137, 138 County and Club level 248 Schools/Colleges exemption 137 Power to request financial Transfers 137–40 information 37 Power to summon Special Congress Central Council 239–64 261 Administration & Organisation 8–31 Presidents and Vice-Presidents 9–12 Affiliation 249 Sponsorship 95–103 All Star team selection 263 Sub-committees 250–52 Alteration of decisions taken 30 Submission of Bye-Laws by 1st Appointment of CEO 230 March 175 Appointment of Executive Terms and conditions 88 Committees 23, 24 Voting delegates 58, 59, 158, 262 Authority and Responsibilities 249, see also Congress 253–7, 264 Congress may refer a motion to Championship: Central Council 235 Amalgamated teams 188 County Board affiliation deadline 184 British Provincial Championship 222 Decisions and Appeals 239–40 Club having two teams, best 15 Definition of Sponsorship Rules 95 players 123 Determination of compensation Grading 153–7, 223 amount 75 Moving up a grade after winning Election of Sub-Committees 31 Junior/Inter County C’Ship 123, 223 Emergency Meeting 28, 29 Player Eligibility 136–52 Emergency situations 246, 247 Playing for European club and home Finance 32–40, 259 club 112 Grading 153–7, 184 Provincial Championship 221–3 Inability of nominated delegates to Runner up cannot be downgraded attend 59 in following year 125 Injury Fund Arbitration 87, 89, 90 Injury Fund subscription 70 56 International Unit delegates 106 City: 148 CCA does not apply in cities 137 Power to appoint paid officials 65 Definition 2 Property - trustees 127 Registration of club colours 122 Club 115–31 Registration of players and members Affiliation 91, 115, 119 49, 115, 122 Alteration of decisions taken 30 Responsible for conduct of Amalgamation of two or more clubs members and followers 18 129 Right of refusal of membership 121 Annual General Meeting 116, 117 Sanctions for failure to attend Appointment of Executive County Board meetings 181 Committees 23, 24, 116 Sponsorship 95–103 Bye-Laws 128 Taking part in official competitions Children’s Officer 22, 116 119 Clash of colours, Inter-Club 126 Two teams, best 15 players 123 Code of Ethics 92–3 see also Club Executive Committee Disbandment of club 131, 144, 324 Election of Sub-Committees 31, 116 Club Catchment Area see CCA Eligibility to play for club 44, 54, 136–52 Club Executive Committee 132–5 Emergency Meeting 28, 29 Administration 132 Expulsion from Association 130 Alteration of decisions 133 Finance 32–40 Appointment of sub-committees Games 123–5 132, 134 Home Club definition 137 Bank Account 135 Investigations 16, 17 Motions and nominations 172, 176 Code of Ethics 92–3 Moving up a grade after winning Children’s Officer 22 Junior/Intermediate County C’Ship Code of Best Practice for Young 123 Players 92 Naming of club 118 Nomination of delegates to attend Colleges 158–67 Central/Prov. Council 58, 59, 115, Administration 158, 160 116 Affiliation 91, 159, 164 Notice of AGM 116 Annual General Meetings 161–2 Official Correspondence - must go Birth Certificates 167 through Club Sec. or authorised Competition entry fees 163 officer 15 Exemption from CCA rule 137 Official Rules and Regulations 120 Finance 32–40 Permission to remain with New Club Home County 199 if disbanded club reorganised 140 Official competitions 50 Permit Players 109, 110 Player Eligibility 165–6 Playing illegal players 149–50 Playing for more than one club 136, 57 Committees: Children’s Officer 22 Alteration of decisions taken 30 Election of Sub-Committees 31 Appointment of Executive Grading 153–7 Committees 23–5, 116 Player Eligibility 54, 151 Central/Prov. power to attend Playing illegal players 149–50 meetings at County and Club level Power to appoint paid officials 65 219, 248 Registration of County colours 191 Definition 2 Responsible for conduct of Election of sub-committees 31, 116 members and followers 18 Eligibility for election 23, 48 see also County Board; County Finance 32–40 Convention Investigations 16, 265–72 Petty appeals/objections may be County Board 177–98 ruled out 309 Affiliation 91, 184, 198 Resignation of Member 26, 252 Allowing underage or playing for Special/Emergency Meetings 28–9 more than one club 136 Vacant positions 25, 252 Amalgamation of two or more clubs 129, 188 Congress 224–38 Authority and responsibilities 179 Appointment of Chief Executive County colours 191 Officer 230 County Convention 168–76 Date and Venue 224 Disbandment of club 131 Financial Report 38, 213 Expulsion of club from Association Functions and Responsibilities 229– 130 33 Failure of clubs to attend County International Units 106 Board meetings 181 New or Amended Rules 236, 237 Failure to submit accounts 187 Nominations and Motions 176, 217, Fielding illegal teams in Inter-County 225–7, 234–6, 238 competitions 196 Period of notice 225 Finance 37, 185–7 Power to refer a motion to Central Giving a walkover after Council 235 commencement of competition 195 Voting 228 Grading 189 Investigations 16, 17, 179 Correspondence 14–15, 20 No county board in county 198 Appeals 14 Nomination of delegates to attend County Convention Notice 173 Central/Prov. Council 58, 59 Nominations for positions on County: Provincial Council 207 Alteration of decisions taken 30 Officers 178 Appointment of Executive Player Eligibility 192 Committees 23, 24 Power to request financial Cannot regrade more than 5 players information 37 58 155 Reports of Club AGMs 116, 117 Sponsorship 98 Elections: Structure 177 Club 116 Suspensions 193 County Board 170–72 Team must be sent forward for Inter- Eligibility for election 48 County Adult C’Ship 190 Nominations at Congress 227, 228 Team Selection Process 192 Non-members 48 US GAA 107 Paid Officials 65, 262 Voting delegates 58, 59 Procedure 23–6, 60 Walkover - fine imposed 195 Provincial Council 204, 205, 206 Withdrawal from competition prior to Secret ballot 61 commencement 194 Sub-committees 250 Voting Procedures 23–6 County Convention 168–76 Voting Rights 63 Bye-Laws 175 Date of annual convention 169 Electronic/Email: Election of delegates to Central/ Club Correspondence 15 Prov. and Annual Congress 170 Definition 2 Voting 171 Notification of appeal/objection decision 311 Definitions 2 Notification of penalty 272 Registration system 49, 105, 122 Delegates: Delegates to County Convention Europe: 116, 168 Playing for European club and home Delegates to Provincial & Central club 112 Council 106, 170, 177 Weekend permit 113 Substitute delegates 59 see also International Units Voting rights 58–66, 158, 205, 210, 228 Ex-Presidents: Definition 2

Development Fund: Fee 49 Exceptional Circumstances: Definition 2 Disciplinary Sub-committee 228, 241, Permission to play for other club 250 114, 139, 141 Playing for more than one club 136 Drugs 94 Finance 32–40 Duties: Secretary - Club, County, Authorised Expenses 36 Provincial and Central 20 Bank Accounts 35 Failure to provide annual accounts EGM (Emergency Meeting): Special 39 General Meeting/EGM 28, 29 Financial Reports 38 Investment Funds 38 Presentation of Accounts 39 59 Real Property 34 Playing while making a claim 76 Records and Documentation 33 Prior agreement needed for private Treasurers’ Responsibilities 35, 38 treatment 85 Fixtures Sub-committee 250 Sanctions for invalid claims 84 Scheme Structure 49, 50 Grading: Time restrictions on making a claim Central Council committee 139, 249 78, 79, 81, 82 Counties 153–7 County Board power to grade and Inter Club Transfers 324–30 regrade 179, 189 International Units 109 Inter County Transfers 331–4 Players 109, 123, 153–7, 184 Regrading following competitions Interested Parties: 124, 125, 223 Definition 2 Meetings 310, 311 Home Club: Definition 137 International Units 104–114 Students in Europe playing for home Affiliation 91, 105–6 club 112 Appeals/Objections lodged within 7 working days 301 Home County 199–200 Central Council delegates 106 Definition 199–200 Definition 2 Playing Club football outside Home Permission to deviate from specific County 200 rules 114 Permit Players 109, 110 Injury Fund: Player’s Insurance (Canada/USA) Administration 66–88 111 Arbitration procedure 87, 89–90 Registration 105 Assessment by Association- Structure and Administration 104 appointed medical staff 86 Transfer final date 107, 108 Claim application process 77 Transfer permit forms 107, 109 Date of Registration 73 Weekend permit 113 Development of condition later in life see also Britain; Canada GAA; 67 US GAA Eligibility to play 68 Exceptions 50, 69 Investigations 16, 17, 65–72 Expenses to be covered by fund 74 Central Council 16, 17, 249 Fee Rates 49, 68–70 County Board 16, 17, 179 Inclusion of new members and clubs 72 Irregularities see Investigations Injury Fund Year 71 Invalid claims 80, 81, 82, 83, 84 J1 Visas 110 Monitoring of claims 76 60 Payment of compensation 70, 75 Logo: Monetary Sanctions: Breaches of sponsorship rules 102 failure of clubs to attend County Player attire 97, 101 Board meetings 181 Failure to Pay 40 Majority: Definition 2 Failure to submit accounts 187 Illegal Players 149 Meetings: Payment of 40 Absence of Chair of club or county Playing attire 126 27 Smoking 19 Absence of President 11, 27 Unregistered players 54 AGM - Club 116 Alteration of decisions 30, 133 Motions: Disbandment of Club 131 Alteration of decisions 30, 133, 234 Failure to attend County Board Club motions and nominations 172, meetings 181 173, 176 Interested parties 310, 311 Minutes 20 Naming rights 96 Nominations and Motions 176, 207, 217, 225–7, 234–6, 238 National Appeals Sub-committee 250 Officer’s failure to attend meetings 244 Officers: Periods of notice 162, 173, 202, Children’s 22 212, 225, 246, 310 Club 116 Presentation of annual accounts 39 Contact details to be sent to Central Presidents (Central/Prov.) not and Provincial Council 182 represented by proxy at Central Co. Expenses 36 245 Power to appoint paid officials 65 Provincial Convention 201–2 Registration 56 Special General Meeting/EGM 28, Rights of Paid Officials 65 29, 129 Smoking 19 Substitutes 59, 209 Terms and conditions 65 Voting Rights 58 Membership 41–8 Clubs’ right to refuse membership Permission to Play: 121 Grading Committee make final Full Membership 43, 45 decision 139 Honorary Membership 46 Grading of Permit Players 109 Payment of fees 45, 48 J1 Visas 110 Registration 41, 42 Permission to play in European club Social Membership 47 112 Submission of Club membership Player’s Insurance (Canada/USA) lists 21 111 Youth Membership 43, 45 Returning to Home Club 109 see also Registration Transfer final date 107, 108 61 Transfer permit forms 107 Province: Weekend permit 113 Player Eligibility 54, 151 Power to appoint paid officials 65 Players: Responsible for conduct of Amalgamation of two or more clubs members and followers 18 129 see also Provincial Convention; Application for permission to deviate Provincial Council from rules 93 Clash of colours, Inter-Club 126 Provincial Convention 201–9 Club transfers 107 Annual date 201 Eligibility to play for club 44, 136–52, Election of President 204–9 142 Officers 206–9 Grading 109, 153–7, 184 Period of notice 202 Permission to transfer clubs 138 Voting 205 Permit Players 109 Playing attire 98–101, 126 Provincial Council 210–20 Playing Club football outside Home Affiliation 216 County 200 Alteration of decisions taken 30 Playing illegally 148 Appointment of Executive Playing for more than one club 136, Committees 23, 24 148 Election of Sub-Committees 31 Returning to home club after Emergency Meeting 28, 29 temporary transfer 109 Finance 32–40, 216 Sanctions for refusing to play for Inability of nominated delegates to County 193 attend 59 Schools/Colleges Player Eligibility Investigations 16, 17 165–6 Official Correspondence 14–15 Smoking 19 Period of notice of meetings 212 Suspension 148 Power to attend meetings at County Underage players 136 and Club level 219 Unregistered players 54 Power to request financial Use of corporate logo on jerseys 97 information 37 Young players (Code of Ethics) 92–3 Powers and Responsibilities 216–20 see also Permission to Play Presidents and Vice-Presidents 9–12 Report to Annual Congress 20, 213, Presidents (Central & Provincial Council) 214, 215 9–12 Sponsorship 98 Not represented by proxies at Voting delegates 58, 59, 158 Central Co. meetings 245 Referees: Property: Expenses 36 Club Property 34, 127 Reports 77, 284 GAA rules/property 103 Suspension 273, 276, 277, 280, 62 Real Property 2, 34 286 Registration 49–56 Central Council 250–52 CCA (Club Catchment Area) 137 Disciplinary 228, 241, 250 Club Registrar 49 Election of 31 Eligibility to play 54 Fixtures 250 Fee Schedule 49 National Appeals 250 International Units 105 Registration with a new club 53 Suspension & Reinstatement 273–95 Registration Year 52, 53, 57, 71, 73 Additional penalties 274 Sanctions for unregistered players Being responsible for termination of 54 a game 282 Validity of Registration 51 Consideration for All Star award 279 Disciplinary Committee 250 Rules: Definition 2 Failure to submit accounts 187 Minimum penalty guidelines 293, Sanction: Definition 2 294 Non-Playing members 286, 287 Schools/Colleges 158–67 Notification 295 Administration 158, 160 Player with 2 Yellow Card offences Affiliation 91, 159, 164 277 Annual General Meetings 161–2 Player/team leaving field without Birth Certificates 167 permission 276, 280 Competition entry fees 163 Playing illegal players 149–50 Eligibility for PPS competitions 166 Playing for more than one club 148 Exemption from CCA rule 137 Playing overage players 281 Finance 32–40 Playing suspended player 278 Home County 199 Reinstatement 290 Official competitions 50 Representation at suspension Player Eligibility 165–6 hearing 283 Responsible for conduct of Terms and scope 285, 286, 290, members and followers 18 291 Sponsorship 98 Urgent cases 284 Voting delegates 158 Use of insulting or threatening language 275 Sponsorship 95–103 Voting 293 Breaches of sponsorship rules 102 see also Appeals; Objections GAA rules/property 103 Playing attire 98–101 Team: Rules defined by Central Council 95 Clash of colours, Inter-Club 126 Grading 153–7, 184, 188 Standing Orders: Definition 2 Smoking 19 Team Lists 15

Sub-committees: Team Lineouts: Definition 2 All Stars 228, 241 63 Third Level Colleges: Definition 2 Working Days: Definition 2 Town: CCA does not apply in towns 137 Definition 2

Transfers 319–23 Application process 319–20, 324, 330, 331 Approval 321 CCA overlapping borders 137 Club refusal to sign transfer form 329 County Board’s right to refuse 325 Inter Club Transfers 324–30 Inter County Transfers 331–4 No transfer if club exists in CCA 139 Player eligibility 142, 145–6, 322 Proof of Address 320 Residency in CCA 327–8

US GAA 107, 109

Vice-Presidents (Central & Provincial Council) 9–12

Video Evidence 17

Voting 57–65 Alteration of decisions taken 30 Central Council 58, 59, 158, 262 Children’s Officer 22 Congress 56, 228 County Convention 171 Elections 23–6, 63 Eligibility to vote 57 Membership 44, 46, 47 Officers 58 Provincial Convention 205 Provincial Council 58, 59, 158 Schools/Colleges 158 Suspension & Reinstatement 293 Tie situations 60, 64 Validity of results when ineligible 64 votes included 57 Official Guide Part Two

65 Contents

PART 2 66 Competitions 67 Championship Fixtures 68 League Competitions 69 Tournament Games 70 Medals and Trophies 71 Teams 71 Substitutions 72 Subs and Sin Bin 73 Blood Subs 74 Player 75 Attire 75 Football 76 Duration of Games 76 Extra Time and Replays 76 Field of Play 77 Commencement of Play 78 Ball In Play 79 Playing Rules 80 Scores 81 Fouls 81 Free Kicks 84 Penalties 86 Rectangles 86 Kick Out 87 Referee 87 Umpires 91 Linespersons 91 Fourth Officials 92 Index 93

66 Competitions 335. National competitions shall be held in the following grades, the format of which shall be decided by Congress or Central Council. (a) Senior (b) Intermediate (c) Junior (d) Minor - confined to players who are Under 18 years of age on 1st January of the Championship year. (e) Juvenile - confined to players who are Under 16 years of age on 1st January of the Championship year. (f) Under 14 - confined to players who are Under 14 years of age on 1st January of the Championship year. (g) Senior Inter-Provincial. (h) Senior, Intermediate and Junior Club (i) All Ireland Club 7-A-Side (j) Post Primary Senior Schools - confined to players who are Under 20 years of age on 1st July of the school year. (k) Post Primary Junior Schools - confined to players who are Under 16 years of age on the 1st July of the school year. (l) Third Level Colleges. 336. Any County which does not participate in the National League may not be allowed to play in that years All Ireland Championship. 337. Underage players can only play in their own age group, and one grade above it, at Inter-County level. (e.g. Under 14 player can play at U 14 and U 16, but not U 17 upwards. An Under 15 or 16 player cannot play at Junior, Intermediate or Senior level). Over 18 Grade is deemed an Adult Grade. 338. The All Ireland Senior, Intermediate and Junior Club Championships shall be completed in the same calendar year in which they commenced. 339. The All Ireland Post Primary Schools competitions shall be played before the first Sunday in May, where possible. 340. The All Ireland HEC Competition shall be played on or before the first Sunday in May. 341. The Under 14, Under 16, and Under 18 All Ireland Finals shall be played on or before the 30th September. 342. The Senior, Intermediate and Junior All Ireland Finals shall be played on or before the last Sunday in October. 67 343. The All Ireland Club 7-A-Side competition shall be played on the weekend of the Senior All Ireland Final. 344. In cases of exceptional difficulties Central Council may make other arrangements for alternative dates. 345. The venue for the Senior All Ireland final shall be Croke Park, Pairc Ui Caoimh or recognised County Grounds. 346. The Home team shall be responsible for the provision of a pitch. The pitch must be properly lined, and nets, and flags provided. At least 5 days notice shall be given to the organising secretary for Inter-County games. 347. Congress and Central Council may make provisions to include teams outside of Ireland in Championships, Leagues or other competitions. The stage at which they enter any competition shall be decided by Annual Congress or Central Council. 348. Games in Under 11 and younger shall be organised on the Go Games Model. Go Games are modified where results are not formally recorded, and where all participants get to play during the course of the game. Teams at Under 6 and 7 shall be a maximum of 7-A-Side. Teams at Under 8 and 9 shall be a maximum of 9-A-Side. Teams of Under 10 and 11 shall be a maximum of 11-A-Side. At Under 12 level, competitions may be organised on a league format, on the basis that participating teams should be a maximum of 13-A-Side. Games should be organised over four quarters, and provision shall be made for all members of the team panel to participate in a minimum of one quarter. Championship Fixtures 349. Teams taking part in Inter-County Championships shall be 15-A-Side. 350. For County, Provincial and All Ireland Championships there shall be a draw. Draws should be arranged to permit byes in the first round only. 351. County and Inter-County Championships, may be run on a league basis with 3 points for a win, 1 point for a draw. 352. The composition of teams taking part in County Championships may be less than 15-A-Side as decided by County Board, County Convention or County Bye-Laws. However, when the County champions take part in the Provincial or All Ireland Club Championships, the competition shall be 15-A-Side. 353. Clubs and Counties must receive at least 5 days advance notice for competitive games, except in an emergency situation or by mutual consent of the teams involved, where a shorter period shall suffice.

68 354. Where a Club or County has delegates at a fixtures meeting, such Club or County shall be deemed to have received official notification of decisions made. 355. A team that fails to fulfil a fixture, having received official notification, and fails to give 2 day’s notice in written or in electronic form, of its intended default, to the appropriate Secretary, may be suspended for 6 months. They may incur a fine of up to €5,000 pursuant to the terms of Rule 195. Their opponents may be awarded the game. Provision of such notice avoids suspension but may not entitle the team to a re-fixture. 356. In the event of a team cancelling a competitive game, without prior notice to the appropriate Secretary, the relevant Committee, Board or Council may be compelled to pay all reasonable vouched expenses incurred, under a penalty of 12 months suspension. 357. A team failing to fulfil a Championship fixture may forfeit its place in that competition and the game may be awarded to its opponents. The team is also liable to a suspension of 6 months. 358. In the All Ireland Under Age Championships, the Provincial winners shall play off for the title, according to the fixtures arranged by Central Council and at such venues as Central Council may decide. 359. All Inter-County Provincial Underage Championships must be concluded at least 7 days prior to the dates arranged for the All Ireland knockout stages. Failure to do so shall result in the county’s removal from the competition, unless otherwise exempted by Central Council. 360. Adult County Club Championships must be concluded at least 7 days in advance of when they are due to play in the Provincial Club Championship, provided such County received at least 4 weeks notice from the Provincial Council of the date of commencement of the Provincial Club Championship. Failure to do so shall result in the clubs removal from the Inter-Provincial Club Championship, unless otherwise exempted by Provincial Council. 361. Provincial Councils shall be entitled to take gate receipts for any games under their control. League Competitions 362. A League shall be subject to the general rules of the Association. Prior to the start of the competition, the Committee, Board or Council in charge shall draw up regulations governing its organisation. 363. League competitions may be run on a single or double round system with 3 points for a win, 1 point for a draw.

69 The procedure for determining the result of the competition, promotion, relegation or qualification for the concluding stages shall be decided by the Committee, Board or Council in charge, prior to the commencement of the competition. 364. The composition of teams taking part in Club or County Leagues, may be less than 15-A-Side as decided by the Committee, Board or Council in charge. The composition of teams taking part in the National Leagues shall be15- A-Side. 365. Should a team withdraw or be disqualified during the course of the League, the results of games played shall stand. Points from its remaining un-played fixtures shall be awarded to its nominated opponents in those matches. Tournament Games 366.  Authorisation to hold and/or to compete in all tournament, friendly and challenge games shall be obtained 24 hours in advance from: (a) The County Board in the first instance. (b) Provincial Council, where the teams are from different Counties within the same Province. (c) Central Council, where teams are from more than one Province. 367. A player or team taking part in any unauthorised tournament, friendly or challenge game shall not be covered by the Injury Fund and may be suspended by: (a) The County Board if only one County involved. (b) The Provincial Council if more than one County in the same Province is involved. (c) Central Council where player or teams are from different Provinces 368. The relevant Committee, Board or Council shall deal with any disciplinary matters arising out of the tournament, friendly or challenge games. There shall be no alteration in the rules governing discipline, except in Féile Peil na nÓg, where the Féile disciplinary rules shall apply. 369. A member or unit of the Association shall not participate in games of Ladies Gaelic Football promoted by a body not affiliated to Central Council, without prior authorisation of Central Council. 370. A player, who is not registered with a particular Club or County, may play for that Club or County as a guest player in a tournament game, providing she has obtained permission from: (a) The relevant Organising Committee, Board or Council (b) Her Registered Club 70 (c) Her affiliated County, if she is on any of her County panels. Medals and Trophies 371. Central Council, Provincial Councils and County Boards shall have control of selecting all medals and trophies for Championships, Leagues etc under their respective control. All medals and trophies shall be of Irish manufacture, except for International Units of the Association. 372. County Boards shall award at least 20 medals or trophies, to League and Championship winners and runners up, and pro-rata where teams of less than 15 players are involved. 373. In all National and Provincial 15-A-Side competitions, the respective Councils shall present 30 winners medals or trophies, and 30 runners up medals or trophies, to the finalists concerned. Exception is in the All Ireland 7-A-Side competitions, where 12 medals or trophies shall be presented to both the winners and runners up. 374. Trophies shall be presented to the All Stars. 375. A trophy or medal shall be presented to the referee of All Ireland finals in all grades, and in any other competitions that Committees, Boards or Councils may decide. 376. It shall be the privilege of the captain of the winning team to accept the cup or trophy on behalf of her team. The safe custody of the cup or trophy shall be the responsibility of the successful Club, County, School, College or Province. Any costs incurred in the replacement or repair of cups or trophies shall be borne by the Club, County, School, College or Province responsible. A cup or trophy shall not be filled with any type of alcoholic beverage. 377. All cups and trophies shall be returned to the Committee, Board or Council in charge 4 weeks prior to the final date. Teams 378. A team shall consist of 15 players. A panel of 30 players and a maximum of 7 officials are allowed on the side-line. 379. Teams shall be 15-A-Side in all games in all Provincial and National Competitions except 7-A-Side competitions. 380. Any competition involving teams of less than 15-A-Side shall be subject to the rules of The Official Guide and other relevant rules as authorised by Central Council. 381. Each team must have at least 11 players to commence a match, but a match may be continued or finished with less than 11 players. The full complement of players may be added during the course of the game, upon notifying the referee. 382. Duplicate lists of players, giving full names, and in the case of Inter-County games, Clubs to which the players belong, must be given to the referee 71 before the commencement of the game in all official games. The number on the player’s jersey must correspond with that players name. Where more than 15 names appear on the team lists, the first 15 shall be taken as constituting the actual team, unless otherwise clearly indicated. 383. Failure to furnish the team list shall result in loss of the game, which shall be awarded to the opposing team. The same penalty shall apply where a player commences a game whose name is not included in the team list, that has been supplied to the referee. There is no onus on the referee to seek the team list from either side. 384. Clubs, Counties or Provinces must supply to the organising Committee, Board or Council team lists of their starting 15 players and their substitutes where required for publication. Failure to do so will result in a fine at the discretion of the Committee, Board or Council in charge of the fixture. 385. A N Other is not a playing member and must not be included in the team or panel list of players. 386. Any team taking the field more than 15 minutes late for any competitive game, exceeding 15 minutes for the interval break, shall forfeit the match to their opponents, unless the delay was unavoidable. 387. Teams that are more than 15 minutes late taking the field must fulfil the fixture under penalty of 6 months suspension. Any team fielding late, after the appointed starting time, shall be fined €2 per minute or part thereof. 388. For Provincial and All Ireland finals, teams must take the field at least 15 minutes before the throw in. Failure to do so shall incur a fine of €50. 389. Teams may be allowed 37 passes into games and functions, as decided by the organising Committee, Board or Council. Substitutions 390. Substitution means replacing any of the players on the team during a game, or at half time. Team mentors may replace a player prior to the commencement of the game without having been deemed to have used a substitute, provided the player in question was not sent off by the referee, and that the team list is amended accordingly. A player sent off by the referee before the commencement of the game, after the teams had lined up for the throw in, cannot be replaced by a substitute. 391. Unlimited Substitutions are allowed in the National League up to the Quarter final stage. 72 However for the Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals and Finals only 5 substitutions are allowed. Only 5 substitutes shall be allowed in Adult Provincial and National Championships. Unlimited Substitutions are allowed in the Provincial Under 14, 16 and 18 Championships apart from the semi-finals and final where only 5 substitutions are allowed. County Boards may increase the number of substitutes for competitions within their counties. 392. A substitution may be made only during a stoppage in play and must be notified to the referee or fourth official in writing. 393. A team that makes more than 5 substitutions in Provincial and National Competitions is liable to forfeit the game to its opponents. 394. Where a period of Extra Time is played in a game, 5 substitutions, in addition to any already used, may be used during Extra Time. 395. Where a Second Period of Extra Time is played, an additional 5 Substitutions may be used during the Second Period of Extra Time. 396. A substitute shall NOT be allowed for a player who has been sent off by the referee during a game. However, where a player is ordered off in Normal Time, she may be replaced by a substitute for Extra Time. 397. A player ordered off by the referee in the First Period of Extra Time, can be replaced by a substitute for the Second Period of Extra Time. Subs and Sin Bin 398. A “Sin Bin” rule shall apply in all grades from and including Under 14 upwards. The duration of the Sin Bin is governed by the duration of Normal Time. Where a player commits a First Yellow Card offence, she shall have her name recorded by the referee and sent off the field of play for 10/5 minutes Playing Time (Sin Bin). In games of one hour duration (30 minutes per half), the Sin Bin time is 10 minutes Playing Time. Where Extra Time is played in such a game and a player is Sin Binned in Extra Time, the duration of the Sin Bin is for 10 minutes. Where a player commits a Yellow Card offence in games of less than 30 minutes a half, she shall be sent to the Sin Bin for 5 minutes Playing Time. Where Extra Time is played in such a game, the Sin Bin time shall be for 5 minutes, even though the game may have exceeded one hour. The Sin Binned player may remain with her substitute colleagues.

73 She can only resume play after completing her 5/10 minutes playing time ban, with the permission of the referee or a designated official and only in a stoppage in play. If on her resumption, she repeats a Cautionable Offence, she shall be shown a Yellow Card (2nd), followed by a Red Card and ordered off the field of play for the remainder of the game, which shall include Extra Time where played. 399. A player sent to the Sin Bin cannot be replaced by a substitute until she has served her 5/10 minutes Playing Time ban. However, if she has been replaced by a substitute for Extra Time, and should the team management wish to bring the Sin Binned player back onto the field of play on expiry of her Sin Bin Playing Time, her team shall be deemed to have used an Additional Substitute. A player sent off for 2 Yellow Card offences in Normal Time can be replaced for Extra Time. Blood Subs 400. A player who is bleeding, has blood on her body or playing attire as a result of an injury sustained during play, shall on the instructions of the referee, leave the field of play to receive medical attention. She shall not return to the field of play until the bleeding has stopped, all blood cleaned off, and the blood stained attire cleaned or replaced. The injured area should be covered where possible. 401. When the player who had the Blood Injury is ready to resume playing she shall present herself to the referee or fourth official during a stoppage in play. The referee or fourth official should ensure that the bleeding has stopped, the attire is replaced or cleaned and that the Blood Substitute has left the field. Where the injured player resumes with a different numbered jersey, the referee or fourth official should note the new number. 402. A player who suffers a Blood Injury, may be replaced by a Blood Substitute, who shall notify the referee or fourth official in writing, that she is a Blood Sub. The Blood Substitute shall NOT count as a substitute allowed under Normal Substitution rules. If the Blood Injured player returns to the field of play as a direct replacement for the player who replaced her, her team shall not be deemed to have used a Normal Substitute. 403. Where the Blood Injured player returns to the field of play for any other player, apart from the player that directly replaced her, her team shall be deemed to have used a Normal Substitute.

74 404. If a Blood Substitute is sent off for a first Yellow Card offence, the team management must take off another player if they wish to bring the player who sustained the Blood Injury back onto the field of play, before the 5/10 minute playing time ban has expired for the Blood Sub. This shall NOT count as a Normal Substitution. The team has to be down to 14 players. 405. Where a Blood Substitute was sent off for a Yellow Card offence, and the team management wish to bring her on after the 5/10 minutes Playing Time ban has expired, they shall be deemed to have used a Normal Substitute, if the player whom she has replaced who suffered the blood injury has already resumed playing. 406. Where a Blood Substitute is sent off for a Red or 2nd Yellow Card offence, her team shall substitute another player, if they wish to bring the Original Blood Injured Player back onto the field of play. This shall NOT count as a Normal Substitute. 407. Where a team has used its full complement of Normal Substitutes in either Normal or Extra Time, and a player suffers a Blood Injury, she may be replaced by a Blood Substitute. Player 408. A player, who may be pregnant, suffering from concussion, etc., should not play Ladies Gaelic Football. However, should she play, she shall do so at her own risk and the Ladies Gaelic Football Association cannot be held responsible for any consequences that may arise. Attire 409. The attire to be worn shall consist of jersey, shorts, socks and boots. Penalty for breach of this rule shall be €100. For all games undergarments/compression shorts should not exceed the length of the shorts and be of the same colour as the outer garments. The goalkeeper may wear track-suit bottoms. 410. Jerseys worn by all teams competing in Club, County, School and College competitions, must be numbered and the numbers must coincide with those listed in any match programme and team lists. Members of the same team shall have uniform attire in shorts and socks. Penalty for infringement of this rule shall be a fine of €100. 411. Players shall not wear jewellery, (with the exception of wedding rings which must be covered by a tape), hair slides or any other items that may cause injury while playing Ladies Gaelic Football. If in the referee’s opinion any player is not safely attired, she shall be asked to rectify the situation. Should she refuse to do so the referee shall order her off the field until the situation is rectified.

75 412. Any player who requires corrective eyewear and wants to wear glasses to participate in Ladies Gaelic Football must wear glasses that use durable, unbreakable polycarbonate for the lens and have durable unbreakable frames as advised by an optometrist to play gaelic games. 413. All players must wear a mouth guard while playing Ladies Gaelic Football unless advised otherwise, in writing, not to do so, by a qualified Doctor or Dentist. Should she fail to do so, the referee shall order her off the field until the situation is rectified. This shall not impose on any Referee, Linesperson, Umpire, Side-line Official, Team Official or Unit, any legal duty of care or legal responsibility. This duty shall remain with individual Players, and if relevant, Parents, Guardians or other persons legally responsible for them. Football 414. A size 4 football shall be used in all grades of competition from Under 11 upwards. A smaller size 3 or Go Games football may be used in younger age groups. The Size 4 football shall not weigh less than 400g and not more than 420g and shall have a circumference of not less than 62.5cm and not more than 64.5cm. The ball should be pumped to 6.5psi. 415. Both teams must provide a football for all competitive games. Duration of Games 416. The duration of all competitive games from Under 14 upwards, except 7-A-Side or Blitz competitions, shall be one hour – 30 minutes per half. Teams must change ends at half time. Should Extra Time be required, it shall consist of 10 minutes each way, and shall commence not more than 10 minutes after the end of Normal Time. There shall be a toss of a coin in the presence of both captains for choice of ends at the commencement of the game. 417. An interval not exceeding 15 minutes shall be allowed at half time in Normal Time, and 5 minutes at half time in Extra Time. Extra Time and Replays 418.  If a competitive game ends in a draw after Normal Time there shall be a replay unless it is previously arranged by the Committee, Board or Council in charge of the game, or by mutual consent of the participating teams, that Extra Time be played. 419. Extra Time shall be compulsory in Inter-Provincial competitions that end in a draw at the knockout stages. 420. If a match is a replay after a previous drawn game, Extra Time must be 76 played if the teams finish level at the end of Normal Time. 421. In exceptional circumstances, the Organising Committee, Board or Council may instruct teams to play One Period of Extra Time followed by a point shoot-out from 30 metres, between the two posts, where indicated by the referee. In the case of under 14 competitions and below, the point shoot-out shall be from the 20 metre line. Each team shall take 5 kicks at point scoring. If the scores are still tied after each team has taken their 5 kicks, sudden death procedure shall follow, using different players, until such time as there is a winner. The ball must go directly over the crossbar, off the crossbar and over, or off the uprights and over the crossbar, to be counted as a point. A ball that hops in front of the goal and goes over the bar shall not be counted as a point. Any player that crosses the 30m mark while kicking for a point shall have her score disallowed. The referee shall add the points scored by both teams in the shoot-out to the scores at the end of Extra Time in reporting the final score. Extra Time shall consist of 10 minutes each way. 422. The referee shall toss a coin in the presence of both captains for choice of ends at the commencement of each period of Extra Time. 423. In the event of a re-fixture after a drawn game, the team that travelled in the first instance shall have home venue for the replay. If the drawn game was played at a neutral venue, the organising Committee, Board or Council shall arrange the time and venue for the replay. 424. In the event of a draw in an All Ireland final, the venue for the replay shall be arranged by the Management Committee of Central Council. Field of Play 425. The field of play should not be less than 130 metres or more than 145 metres long, and not less than 80 metres or more than 90 metres wide. 426. Side-Lines, End-lines, 13 metre, 20 metre, 45 metre, Halfway-Line and Parallelograms shall be clearly marked. 427. The scoring space shall be formed by two goalposts, 7 metres high and 6.5 metres apart. There shall be a crossbar 2.5 metres from the ground. Each goal shall be equipped with a net. 428. Two Parallelograms shall be formed in front of each goal. The Small Parallelogram shall measure 14 metres by 4.5 metres, the End-Lines of which shall be marked 3.75 metres from each goalpost. The Large Parallelogram shall measure 19.5 metres by 13 metres, the End-Lines of which shall be 6.5 metres from each goalpost. 429. The referee shall report any irregularities in the foregoing rules. Penalty 77 for non compliance may be a fine of €50 and the Committee, Board or Council in charge may order a replay. 430. Before the start of the game, the captain should call the attention of the referee to any irregularities. There can be no objection to the size of the pitch, lines, etc., unless an official protest has been made to the referee before the game starts. 431. The dimension of the field of play, scoring space, and the duration of the game may be reduced by the organising Committee, Board or Council for competitions that are less than 15-A-Side. 432. All Inter-County and Inter-Club Championship matches in the Provincial and All Ireland Championships shall be played in enclosed pitches. A roped off pitch is not considered an enclosed pitch. The definition of an enclosed pitch is where the general public do not have free access to the field of play. All gates leading from the spectator area to the field of play must be properly stewarded. The only exceptions are: (a) In emergency situations. (b) Where prior approval is obtained from the Organising Committee, Board or Council. Commencement of Play 433. Before commencing play, the referee shall toss a coin in the presence of both captains for the choice of ends, and ensure that no team has more than 15 players on the field. 434. The referee commences play at the start of the game and that of the second half by blowing the whistle, and throwing in the ball between two midfield players from each side. All other players shall be behind the 45 metre line and in their respective attacking and defending positions. Ball In Play 435. The ball is in play until the whole of the ball has passed over the goal-line, end-line or side-line. 436. The last person touching the ball on the field of play shall be deemed the last player playing the ball. 437. When a clashed ball crosses the end-line, it shall be regarded as a wide ball. 438. If the ball is played over the end-line and outside the goalposts, by one of the defending side, the opposing team shall be awarded a 45 metre kick opposite to where the ball crossed the end-line.

78 The 45 metre kick shall be taken off the ground in all grades from Under 15 upwards. In grades up to and including Under 14, the player has the option of kicking it from the hands or off the ground. Should a player taking the 45 metre kick foul the ball, she shall retake the kick. Should an opposing player interfere with the taking of the 45m kick, the referee shall award a free 13m forward, nearer to the defending goal. 439. When a player plays the ball over the side-line, it shall be a side-line kick to the opposing team from where it crossed the line. The player may take the side-line kick from the hands or off the ground. 440. Where a clashed ball crosses the side-line, the linesperson shall throw in the ball over the heads of one player from each side, where the ball crossed the line. 441. Should the ball strike the corner or side-line flags and come back onto the field of play, it shall be deemed to have crossed the side-line and result in a line ball. 442.  If the ball strikes the referee in general play, a throw in shall be given. If the team that had possession of the ball retained possession of it, the referee should allow play to continue. 443. If the ball strikes the referee from a free, the free shall be retaken. 444. If the ball strikes a non-player from a free, the free shall be retaken. However, if in the referees opinion, the ball has been impeded from crossing the goal-line, end-line or side-line, s/he shall make the appropriate award - a score, a wide, 45 metre kick or line-ball. 445. If the ball in play strikes a non-player, a throw in shall be given where the ball struck the non-player. However, if, in the referees opinion, the ball was prevented from crossing the end-line or side-line, s/he shall make the appropriate award against the player who played it last. Should the ball be prevented from crossing the goal-line in such instances, the referee shall award the appropriate score. 446. A referee must extend time in each half for delays, whether deliberate or incidental in the half, or extend time for a free to be taken. Where the referee indicates that it is the last kick of the half from a free kick, a score can only result when it is scored directly from the free kick, or if the ball is deflected under or over the crossbar by a member of the defending team. Where a member of the team awarded the free plays the ball again in any manner, any score resulting from her actions shall be disallowed. Should the defending team commit a further foul before the referee whistles for half or full-time, s/he shall further extend time for a free to be

taken. 79 If the ball is played over the end-line by a member of the defending team a 45m kick shall be awarded. A score can only result from the 45m Kick, when no other player of the team awarded the 45m kick plays the ball i.e. it must be scored directly, unless it goes off a defending player. Playing Rules 447. A player may pick the ball off the ground with the toe, or lift it with one or both hands, provided she is in a standing position. 448. A player while on the ground may play the ball away from her, but cannot bring the ball that is on the ground into her possession. 449. The ball when caught may be kicked, struck with the fist or open hand, or hopped once against the ground with one or both hands. 450. The ball may be knocked from an opponents hands by flicking it with the open hand or hands. 451. A player while holding the ball into her body cannot be legally dispossessed. Any attempts to do so shall result in a free being awarded to her team. 452. A player may change the ball from one hand to the other once, provided the holding hand maintains contact with the ball, until the change is completed. 453. A player in possession of the ball may play the ball from toe to hand any number of times. After any such play, the ball may be hopped once against the ground by the hand(s). 454. A player, who does not catch the ball, may make a run by hopping it any number of times with one or both hands. Should she catch the ball, she is allowed to hop it only once. 455. A player shall not kick the ball as an opponent is about to pick it up, or take it into her possession. 456. A player may carry the ball for a maximum of 4 consecutive steps, or for the time needed to take 4 consecutive steps. 457. A player in possession of the ball may not tip the ball up on her hands. 458. A player may not throw the ball. However she may toss the ball with one hand and play it with the same hand. 459. There shall be no deliberate body contact. 460. Where a referee stops play to deal with an injured player(s), the team in possession of the ball at the time of the stoppage in play, shall retain possession on the restart. Play shall resume with the team that had possession of the ball, taking a kick and all players shall be 13 metres from the ball at the point of kicking it. However, they cannot score directly from the kicked ball. 80 Where neither team was in possession of the ball at the time of the stoppage in play, the referee shall throw the ball in between one player from each side. Scores 461. The game shall be decided by the greater number of points. A goal shall be equivalent to 3 points. 462. A goal is scored when the ball is kicked, flicked on in flight by any part of the body, or played by either team, between the goalposts and under the crossbar. 463. Should a defending player play the ball in any manner through her own scoring space, it shall count as a score. 464. Should a defender cross the goal line with the ball, a goal shall be given to the attacking team, provided the whole ball has crossed the line. 465. Should an attacking player throw or carry the ball over the goal-line, a score shall not be allowed. 466. Any player who falls or is knocked to the ground while in possession of the ball, may fist or palm the ball on the ground and may score by doing so. 467. A point is scored when the ball is kicked, fisted, palmed or flicked on in flight by any part of the body, by either team, between the goalposts and over the crossbar. 468. If the ball strikes anyone other than a player within the goal area, and in the referee’s opinion a goal or a point was prevented, s/he shall allow such a score. 469. When the ball hits the uprights or crossbar and comes back onto the field of play it is still in play. 470. Should the upright or crossbar become displaced or broken, the referee may allow time for the repair of same. Should the ball pass between or above or below the broken goalposts or crossbar, the referee may in his/her opinion allow a goal or a point as the case may be. Fouls 471. The following fouls shall be penalised by a free being awarded to the opposing team (a) Overcarrying the ball (taking more than 4 steps without playing the ball) (b) Throwing the ball (c ) Lying on the ball (d) Picking the ball off the ground while not in a standing position 81 (e) Bringing the ball into possession while on the ground (f) Changing the ball from hand to hand more than once in succession

(g) Hopping the ball more than once in succession after catching it (h) Handpassing the ball without a visible striking action (i) Handpassing the ball up and catching it before it touches the ground, or before being touched by another player 472. The following fouls shall be penalised by a free being awarded to the opposing team. Repetition of these fouls shall constitute a Yellow Card offence with penalties as outlined in Rule 473. (a) Pushing or holding an opponent (b) Bringing the hand into contact with the body of an opponent for the purpose of dispossessing her of the ball (c) Third player tackle including body checking an opponent (d) Impeding an opponent (e) Diving on the ball as another player is about to pick it up (f) A player in possession of the ball leading with her elbow (g) Frontal pushing of a player (h) Chopping down on the arms of an opponent (i) Provoking or intimidating players by verbal or physical actions (j) Preventing an opponent getting up from the ground (k) Pulling an opponent’s jersey (l) Interfering with a free taker by jumping up and down, waving or clapping hands, or any other physical or verbal interference aimed at distracting the free taker. Should this occur when an attacking team is awarded a 13 metre free in front of their opponents goal, a penalty shall be awarded. A player may hold her hands upright. (m) Deliberately delaying the kick out or a free-kick (n) Deliberately not moving back to allow a quick free to be taken (o) Kicking the ball away when a free is awarded against the team in possession of the ball (p) Not releasing the ball when a free is awarded against the player in possession of the ball (q) Use of foul or improper language.

82 473. The following fouls shall be penalised by a free being awarded to the opposing team, and the offending player’s name taken, and shown a Yellow Card. She should be sent off the field of play (Sin Bin), in grades from and including Under 14 upwards. (a) Deliberate pulling down or tripping by hand or foot (b) High tackle (c)  Threatening or using abusive language or gestures towards an opponent or colleague (d)  Blocking or attempting to block an opponent with the boot as that player is about to kick the ball from her hands (e) A sliding tackle with the boot (f) Kicking the ball with intent as an opposing player is about to pick it up (g) Bringing the fist into contact with the body of an opponent for the purpose of dispossessing her of the ball (h) Dissenting or challenging the authority of a match official (i) Persistent fouling (j) Feigning injury, or diving to gain a free kick or penalty or to get an opponent Cautioned or Sent Off. If she repeats any of these offences upon her resumption, she shall be shown a 2nd Yellow Card, followed by a Red Card and sent off the field of play for the duration of the game, which shall include Extra Time where played. In any competition up to and including the Under 13 grade, the Sin Bin rule shall not apply. The player shall be shown the Yellow Card and if she commits another Cautionable Offence, she shall be shown a 2nd Yellow Card, followed by a Red Card and sent off the field of play for the duration of the game, and any Extra Time that may be played. 474. The following fouls shall be penalised by a free being awarded to the opposing team, and the offending player shown the Red Card and ordered off the field of play without caution. She shall be suspended for a minimum of 4 weeks. (a) Striking or making a striking action towards an opponent or colleague with the hand, arm, elbow, head or knee (b) Kicking an opponent or colleague (c) Striking, threatening, using abusive language to, or interfering with a match official (d) Deliberate charging of an opponent, colleague or official (e) Deliberate high tackle 83 (f) Deliberate sliding tackle (g) Deliberate frontal charge or jumping at an opponent, colleague or official (h) Spitting at an opponent, colleague or official

(j) Deliberate pulling of an opponent or colleagues hair (j) Biting an opponent or colleague

(k) Stamping on an opponent or colleague (l) Using racist, sectarian or homophobic language or gestures towards an opponent, colleague, mentor, match official or spectator (m) Inciting colleagues or opponents to cause or take part in any type of affray while on the pitch Should any of the above offences be repeated in a calendar year, she shall be suspended for a minimum of 12 weeks. Free Kicks 475. The penalty for most breaches of the rules shall be a free kick. 476. If a foul occurs, the referee may allow play to continue, if s/he considers this to be to the advantage of the offended team for up to 5 seconds after the foul. Where no advantage accrues the referee may award a free from where the original foul occurred. Should the foul occur inside the 13 metre line apart from Penalty Kicks, the referee shall award the free from the 13 metre line opposite to where the foul occurred. Disciplinary action, if warranted, may be applied to the offender, who, in any event should be advised by the referee at the next break in play, that a foul had been committed. 477. Once the referee has blown for a free, the ball may be kicked, from the hand, or off the ground, from where indicated by the referee. 478. The ball shall be stationary, before a free-kick, side-line kick and 45metre kick is taken off the ground. Failure to do so, shall result in the kick being retaken. 479. In the interests of continuity of play, all free kicks except penalty kicks and free kicks on the 13 metre-line, may be taken immediately at the spot indicated by the referee. A referee may allow advantage of up to 4 metres for a Quick-Free to be taken. 480. Where in the referees opinion, a free is being taken from the incorrect position, the free should be retaken from where indicated by the referee.

84 Continued breach of this rule shall result in the free being disallowed, the ball thrown in between a player from each side. All other players shall be 13 metres from the throw in. 481. All players must be 13 metres from the ball when a free kick is being taken unless they are not interfering with play. 482. Should an opposing player stand nearer than 13 metres from the ball when a free kick, side-line kick, or 45 metre kick is being taken, or illegally charge a free kick, the opposing team shall be awarded a free kick from where she stood or illegally charged the free kick. 483. Should a player taking a quick free kick, deliberately play it against an opponent for the purpose of gaining advantage, without allowing her opponent adequate time to retreat 13 metres, the player shall lose her free kick and play is restarted by throwing in the ball between a player from each side. 484. Should a defending player illegally charge a 13 metre free kick directly in front of the goal by the attacking team, the referee shall award a penalty. 485. When a free kick has been awarded and the taker passes to a colleague, who is less than 13 metres from the ball, the referee shall award a free kick to the opposing team from where the recipient stood. 486. The free taker may not play the ball again until another player has touched it. Should she do so, the referee shall award a free to the opposing team, from where the foul occurred. The only exception to this rule is where the ball rebounds off the crossbar or uprights, the free taker may play the ball again. 487. Where a foul is committed on a player after she plays the ball, the referee should: (a) Award a free from where the ball lands (b) Allow a score, should she have scored (c) Award a free on the 13 metre line, opposite to where the ball landed on or inside the 13 metre line, or over the end-line (d) Award a free on the side-line at the point where the ball crossed the side-line If the free is to the attacking team and the ball crossed the side-line between the 13 metre line and the end-line, the free shall be taken from the 13 metre line. 488. Should a player from each team foul at the same time, the referee shall throw in the ball over the heads of one player from each side. 489. Once the referee has awarded a free, and prior to it being taken, a player on the team awarded the free fouls in retaliation, the free shall be

85 disallowed. Play shall be restarted by the referee by throwing the ball over the heads of one player from each team where the original foul occurred. 490. Where the referee throws in the ball between one player from each team, all other players shall be 13 metres from both players. 491. Should a player show dissent in any way with the referee’s decision to award a free to the opposing team, the free-kick shall be awarded from a point 13 metres nearer to the defending goal, but not inside the 13 metre line. Should the original free be near the side-line on or inside the 13 metre line, the referee shall place the ball on the 13 metre line, 13 metres nearer to the centre of the goal. 492. A player taking a free-kick or a kick-out near the end-line or side-line may step outside these lines for the purpose of taking a run. Penalties 493. A penalty shall be awarded when: (a) Any foul is committed by the defence within the small rectangle (b) A personal foul is committed by the defence on an attacking player within the large rectangle (c) An attacking player in the large rectangle has her hands on the ball and an opponent kicks the ball The referee shall award a penalty even though the boot may not have come in contact with the player’s hand. 494. A penalty shall be taken from the ground at the centre point 11 metres directly in front of the goal. All players with the exception of the goalkeeper, and the player taking the kick, shall be outside the 20 metre line. 495. The goalkeeper may move along the goal-line, but cannot advance from the goal-line until the ball has been kicked. If the goalkeeper moves forward before the ball is kicked and a score does not result (ball goes wide, deflected over the crossbar or for a 45m kick, or it is saved etc), the penalty shall be retaken. 496. It is only the player wearing a distinctive jersey who enjoys the rights and privileges of a goalkeeper, i.e. is allowed to pick the ball off the ground, without being in a standing position inside the small rectangle. Rectangles 497. If an attacking player is within the small rectangle before the ball enters it, the defending team shall be awarded a free out from within the small rectangle.

86 498. If an attacking player legally enters the small rectangle after the ball and the ball is cleared from that area, but is returned before the attacking player has had time to leave the small rectangle, she shall be deemed not to have committed an offence, provided she does not play the ball or does not interfere with the defence. 499. If an attacking player is in the small rectangle before the ball and a point is scored from out the field, the score shall be allowed, provided: (a) The ball is sufficiently high to be out of the reach of all players. (b) She does not interfere with the defence. Kick Out 500. The ball may be kicked from the hands or off the ground from the 13 metre line for a kick out from goal after a wide in all competitions. All players except the kicker and the goal keeper shall be outside the 20 metre line, and at least 13 metres from the ball until it is kicked. The ball must cross the 20 metre line before being played by another player. Where another player offends, a free shall be awarded to the opposing team on the 20 metre line opposite to where the foul occurred. 501.  The player taking the kick-out off the ground shall have the option of using a tee. 502. Where an opposing player stands nearer to the goal-line than the 20 metre-line, the defending side shall be awarded a free out on the 20 metre line. 503. The kick out shall be taken from the 20 metre line in front of the goalposts after a score. All players except the kicker and the goal keeper shall be outside the 20 metre line, and at least 13 metres from the ball until it is kicked. 504. The player taking the kick out may play the ball more than once before any other player plays it, provided, she does not take it into her hands. Referee 505. Committees, County Boards, Provincial and Central Councils, shall have the power to appoint match officials for all games under their control. 506. Neutral referees who have completed a recognised seminar and rules course of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association shall be appointed for all games where possible. Referees shall be subject to assessment from time to time as may be determined by Central Council. 507. If a referee is unable to officiate at a game, the secretary or Committee, Board or Council in charge of the fixture shall appoint a substitute who has completed a recognised seminar and rules course of The Ladies Gaelic Football Association.

87 However, where a referee is unable to officiate at the last moment, s/he may nominate a substitute referee, under whom the teams shall play. 508. Where County games are played at neutral venues, both teams shall pay the referee’s expenses. These may be refunded from gate receipts or from the organising Provincial or Central Council. 509. In Inter-County games the Home County shall pay the referee’s fee before the commencement of the game. The fee may be recouped from the gate money taken at that game. A return should be made to the National or Provincial treasurer as appropriate, showing the total gate receipts (before payment to the referee), referees expenses and any other expenses incurred i.e. fee for use of the pitch. 510. County Boards, Provincial and Central Councils shall hold referees coaching courses periodically. 511. Referees shall wear officially approved attire when officiating at all games. 512. A referee’s requirements are a whistle, watch, coin, notebook, pencil/pen and Yellow and Red Cards. 513. The duties and powers of a referee in addition to those outlined in the playing rules shall be to: (a) Sign and give a copy of the team lists to the opposing team before the commencement of the game Report on any failure regarding the receipt of team lists to the Committee, Board or Council in charge of the fixture (b) See that the players are properly attired and report on same (c) Obtain, if requested by the team captain or team official, the signature, full address and Club of any player whose name appears on the official team list, and that of any substitute who takes part in the game. (d) Allow or disallow scores. (e) Consult with match officials when occasion demands and replace any of them should they withdraw their services before the end of the game. (f) Deal with intrusions of unauthorised persons onto the field of play. (g) Take the names or otherwise identify players or officials interfering during the game and report on it accordingly. (h) Report on pitch markings and on any other unsatisfactory aspects of the field of play. (i) Add on additional time for substitutions to be made and for the time taken to caution or order off a player. 88 514. The referee shall decide: (a) Whether ground or other conditions are suitable for playing (b) To terminate a game because of darkness (c) To terminate a game because of persistent outside interference, or any other reason s/he considers necessary e.g. if a player refuses to leave the field or, having been ordered off, returns to participate in the game 515. When a player, players, or a team refuse to continue with a game, the referee should give the captain of the team approximately 3 minutes to decide their final intentions. If the team still refuses to play, any player willing to continue with the game should give her name to the referee.

The referee shall make a full report of the incident to the Committee, Board or Council in charge of the fixture. 516. If a game is terminated by the onset of darkness, it must be re-fixed unless there was a deliberate delay on the part of one team. In those circumstances the game may be awarded to their opponents. If the game was terminated for any other reason, the decision rests with the Committee, Board or Council in charge. 517. The referee shall give permission to a maximum of 2 officials to attend to an injured player. Such officials shall not enter the field of play without the referee’s permission. Treatment of injuries shall be given on the side-line unless in exceptional circumstances where the referee shall use his/her discretion. 518. The referee shall have the power to over-rule a match official and give final scores. The referee may be assisted in determining scores by any scoring device as approved by Central Council. 519. The referees decision on any question of fact and in regard to time shall be final. The referee may be assisted in the timing of games by any timing device as approved by Central Council. Should such a timing device be used, the following rules shall apply: (a) It is stopped on the signal of the referee by the operator and restarted on the signal of the referee (b) At the end of 30 minutes playing time a hooter should sound (c) If a free has been awarded on or before the hooter sounds, the referee shall allow the free and any resulting frees to be taken. A score can only result from this free if no other player on the same side touches the ball

89 (d) A score resulting from a ball in flight at the start of the sound of the hooter i.e. when no other player on the same side touches the ball, shall be allowed (e) If the ball is played over the end line and outside the goalposts by one of the defending side, a 45 metre kick shall be awarded. This must be scored directly unless played by a member of the defending team. 520. The referee cannot make the award of a game, but may give the final score if requested. The awarding of the game rests with the Committee, Board or Council in charge of the fixture. Video evidence shall not be admissible unless as outlined in Rule 518 to review the decision of a referee where the decision relates to the allowance or disallowance of a score, the award of a free or the playing time allowed. 521. The referee shall forward team lists, and a detailed report of the match to the Committee, Board or Council in charge of the fixture, showing: (a) The final and half time score (b) The time the teams took the field (c) The time that the match commenced (d) The attire of players and note the number of the player(s) not wearing the correct attire (e) The names of any players cautioned or ordered off and the reasons. Specific details and exact nature of the offence committed and in cases of verbal abuse, the exact words used must be reported (f) The names of any players injured or any other information s/he deems relevant (g) The names of substitutes used during the course of the game (h) Any other incidents or breach of rules that took place. 522. The team lists and referees match report shall remain the property of the Committee or Council in charge of the fixture and shall not be issued to any other party. However if a person is the subject of a disciplinary hearing as a result of the referee’s report, the relevant section of that report shall be made available. 523. In the event of a team failing to participate in a game, the referee shall count the players of the team(s) that is present, to ensure that they have 11 players. The referee shall obtain a team list, and forward a report to the Committee, Board or Council in charge of the fixture. 90 524. Where the referee fails to forward a report of a game, the Committee, Board or Council in charge shall have the power to investigate infringements of the rules that may have occurred, and call witnesses who attended the game. 525. Referees from the Association’s own panel shall be paid expenses at the rate of 30 cent per kilometre or 50 cent per mile, and a match fee of €40, or as decided by Central Council. International Units of the Association are exempted. Umpires 526. There shall be two goal umpires at each end of the ground. They may be appointed by the referee, County Board, Provincial or Central Council, or by their sub-committees. 527. The umpires shall decide, subject to the referees final decision, whether the ball has crossed the goal-line, crossbar, or end-line, and shall signal whether it is a goal, a point, a wide or a 45 metre kick. 528. If an attacking player is within the small rectangle before the ball enters it, and a goal is scored, the umpires shall, with the approval of the referee, disallow the score. 529. If a point is scored, where the ball goes directly off or over the crossbar, out of the reach of the players, and the defence was not interfered with, the umpires, with the approval of the referee, shall allow the score. 530. Where a team scores a goal or a point the umpire shall raise the appropriate flag over his/her head. 531. When a score is disallowed, the umpire shall cross the signal flags (green for a goal, white for a point) in front of the goal. 532. The umpires shall have the power to deal with and bring to the referees attention: (a) Any off the ball incidents (b) Any incidents that may have gone unnoticed by the referee (c) Any incursions onto the field of play by a team manager, coach, selector or any unauthorised person. 533. The umpires shall not change ends at half time. Linespersons 534. There shall be two linespersons, one at either side of the field. They may be appointed by the referee, County Board, Provincial or Central Council or their sub-committees. 535. The linespersons duties shall be: (a) To decide where the ball crosses the side-line and to which team the side-line kick is to be awarded 91 (b) To point the flag in the direction in which the side-line kick is to be taken (c) To deal with and bring to the referees attention, any incidents which the referee may not have seen, or incursions onto the field of play by the team managers, coaches, selectors or unauthorised persons. 536. The linespersons may change sides at half time. Fourth Official 537. There shall be one fourth official, where required. S/he may be appointed by the County Board, Provincial or Central Council or their sub- committees. 538. The Fourth Official duties shall be: (a) To receive substitution notes giving the name and number of a substitute or temporary substitute and the name and number of the player being substituted or replaced (b) To record and report all substitutions and temporary substitutions made during a game to the referee for inclusion in the match report (c) To display by means of electronic or manual board the numbers of players being substituted (d) Timing of sin bins (e) Advise the referee or linesperson of any off the ball incident or score where there is a dispute as to whether a ball was inside or outside the posts.

92 Index Ball striking referee 442 Clashed ball crossing end-line 437 (Note: References are to rule numbers, Clashed ball crossing side-line 440 not page numbers) Definition 435 Free kick 443, 444, 446 Advantage: Last player playing the ball 436 Allowing play to continue after foul Referee indicates free is last kick of 476 half 446 Deliberate playing quick free Side-line kick 439 against opponent 483 Throw-in from side-line 440 Quick free kick 472, 479, 483 Until whole ball across line (end/ goal/side) 435 All Ireland Final: Wide ball 437 Draw in All Ireland final 424 No team in National League, no Blood Subs 400–407 team in championship 336 Blood Substitute sent off 404–6 Playing schedule restrictions 338– Different numbered jersey 401 44 Leaving the field of play 400 Venue selection 345 Playing Attire 400, 401 Returning to the field of play 400, A.N. Other: Not to be included on 401 team list 385 Substitution for blood injury 402–7

Attire 409–413 Bodily contact: Blood Subs 400, 401 Contact 472, 473, 474 Mouth guards 413 Deliberate 459 Player’s attire 411 Referee’s attire 511 Captain: Wearing of corrective eyewear 412 Acceptance of cup or trophy on Wearing jewellery 411 behalf of winning team 376 Coin toss for choice of ends at Award game: Referee cannot award start of extra time 422 game 520 Coin toss for choice of ends at start of game 416, 433 Ball in Play 435–46 Refusal to continue game 515 45 metre kick 438, 446 Responsible for notifying referee of Ball from a free striking non-player any pitch irregularities 430 444 Ball from a free striking referee 443 Championship Fixtures 349–61 Ball played over end-line by Cancellation of game 356 defending player 438, 446 County 350, 352 Ball played over side-line 439 Draw for County, Provincial and All Ball striking corner or side-line flags Ireland 350 441 Draws 350

Ball striking non-player 445 Enclosed pitches 432 93 Failure to fulfil fixture 355–7 International teams 347 Finance 361 Jersey numbering 410 Inter-County 350 Non-participation of county in Jersey numbering 410 National League 336 Number of substitutions 391, 393, Number of substitutions 391, 393, 394, 395 394, 395 Period of notice for games 353, Pitch Regulations 346 354 Under age games 348 Periods of notice 353–6 Venues 345 Referee - presentation of medal/ trophy 375 Corrective eyewear 412 Senior County Club Championships 360 Crossbar: Team composition 349–52 Ball hitting crossbar 469 Team format 349, 352 Ball still in play 469 Underage Championships 358–9 Broken or damaged 470 Dimensions 427 Clashed ball: Scoring 462, 467 Crossing end-line 437 Crossing side-line 440 Dissent: Dissenting or challenging match officials 473, 491 Club & County Championship 349–61 Cancellation of game 356 Distinctive Attire: Enclosed pitches 432 Goalkeeper 496 Playing schedule restrictions 338– see also Rule 126, 191 44 Duration of Games 416–17 Commencement of Play 433–4 Extra Time 416 Coin toss for choice of ends 433 Interval period 417 Player positions 434 Referee given team lists 382–3, Enclosed pitches 432 513, 521 see also Rule 273, 286 Referee responsible for throw in at start of each half 434 End-line: Referee’s report 521 Ball in Play 435 Team must have at least 11 players Ball played over end-line by 381 defending player 438, 446 Ball striking non-player 444, 445 Competitions 335–48 Clashed ball crossing end-line 437 Age restrictions 337, 348 Foul after the ball played 487 All-Ireland final venue 345 Pitch markings 426, 428 Ball Size 414 Step outside to take free kick 492 Completion dates 338–44 Umpire’s decision if ball has Format 335 crossed 527

94 Go Games model 348 Extra Time and Replays 418–24 Dissenting or challenging match Blood Substitutes 407 officials 473, 491 Choice of ends decided by coin High tackles 473, 474 toss 422 Player fouling after own team Draw in All Ireland final 424 awarded free kick 489 Extra time compulsory in Inter- Player from each team fouling at Provincial competitions 419 the same time 488 Extra time compulsory in replay of Red card offences 474 previously drawn game 420 Referee can allow play to continue Format 416, 417, 421 476 Red Card to include extra time 473 Repetition of red card offences in Sin Bin 398, 399 calendar year 474 Substitutions 394, 395, 396, 397 Retaliatory 489 Two periods of extra time 421 Using abusive or threatening Venue selection 423, 424 language 473 Yellow card offences 473 Field of Play 425–32 see also Sin Bin; Suspension Ball hitting crossbar or upright 469 Ball striking corner or side-line flags Fourth Official 537–8 441 Appointment 537 Changes in dimensions allowed Duties and powers 538 431 Dimensions 425, 427, 431 Free Kicks 475–92 Enclosed pitches 432 45 metre kick 438 Gates leading from spectator area Awarded for fouls 471–4 to field of play 432 Ball striking non-player from a free Incursions 432 kick 444 Inter-County and Inter-Club Ball striking referee from a free kick Championship matches 432 443 Irregularities must be objected to Last kick of half 446 before start of game 430 Player fouling after own team Last player playing the ball 436 awarded free kick 489 Markings 426, 428 Player positions 481, 482, 484, Referee to check for irregularities 485, 490 429 Player showing dissent with free Stewards 432 awarded to opposing team 491 Quick free kicks 483 Football 414–15 Referee’s decision final 518 Provision of ball for competitive Side-line kick 439 games 415 Taken from incorrect position 480 Specifications 414 Gate receipts: Fouls 471–4 Provincial Council entitled to games Committed in small or large under their control 361

rectangles 493 Referee’s expenses at Inter-county 95 games 509 Medals and trophies 371, 372 Referee’s expenses at neutral Non-participation of county in games 508 National League 336 Team composition 364 Go Games model 348 Team Withdrawal or Disqualification 365 Goal: Unlimited substitutions 391 Ball in play until whole ball across line 436 Linespersons 534–6 Ball striking non-player 444 Appointment 534 Broken or damaged uprights or Clashed ball throw-in 440 crossbar 470 Duties and powers 535 Definition 461, 462 Referee may overrule 468, 470, Not allowed 528 513, 518 Score 466, 467 Umpires decide ball has crossed Medals and Trophies 371–7 line 527 Acceptance and safe custody of cup or trophy 376 Goalkeeper: Repairs and replacement costs Attire 409, 496 376 Distinctive Attire 496 Return date for cup or trophy 377 Kick out 503 Sourcing and Selection 371–3 Penalty 494, 495, 500 Mouth guards 413 Guest players 370 Overcarrying: Foul 471 Jewellery: wearing when playing 411 Penalties 493–6 Kick Out 500–504 Attire 409, 410 Deliberately delaying 472 Cancelling competitive game 356 Goalkeeper 500, 503 Failure to provide team list 383 Player positions 500, 502, 503 Feigning injury 473 Step outside to take kick out 492 Foul when 13 metre free taken 484 Fouls in small or large rectangles Language: 493 Abusive or racist 474 Goalkeeper 494, 495, 496, 500 Abusive or threatening language Irregularities on field of play 429 473 More than 15 minutes late taking the field 387 League Competitions 362–5 Player positions 494 Competition format 362, 363 County C’Ship may be run on Persistent fouling: league basis 351 Fouling and penalty 473 May include teams from outside Outside interference 514

96 Ireland 347 Players: Playing the ball after catching it A.N. Other not to be included on 449 team list 385 Taking the ball from opponent 450, Blood injuries 400, 401 451 Dissenting or challenging match officials 473, 491 Points: Failure to participate in game 514, Broken uprights or crossbar 470 523 County C’Ship may be run on Guest players 370 league basis 351 Last player playing the ball 436 Definition 467 Mouth guards 413 League Competitions 363 “Own” goal/point 463 Scores 461, 467 Player on the ground may play ball Withdrawal of team 365 away from her 448 Player positions in rectangles 497– Rectangles 497–9 9, 528 Fouls in small or large rectangles Players’ attire checked by referee 493 411 Player positions 497–9 Playing attire 400, 401, 409–413 Positions at commencement of Red card offences 474 play 434 Repetition of offences 473, 474 Positions for free kicks and throw Using abusive or threatening ins 481, 482, 484, 485, 490 language 473 Pregnant player 408 Without caution 474 Referee must be given team lists 382–3 Referee 505–525 Refusal to continue with game 515 Appointment 505 Team must have at least 11 players Approved attire 511 to commence match 381 Ball from a free striking referee 443 Treatment of injuries 517 Ball in play striking referee 442 Unauthorised games not covered Can allow play to continue after by Injury Fund 367 foul 476 Underage 413 Cannot make award of game 520 Wearing of corrective eyewear 412 Decision to terminate game 514, Wearing jewellery 411 516 Duties and Powers 513, 514 Playing Rules 447–60 Equipment required 512 Deliberate body contact 459 Extra time for a free to be taken Picking the ball off the ground 447 446 Play stopped for injuries 460 Extra time to cover delays in play Player on the ground may play ball 446, 513 away from her 448 Final decision to award score 468, Player holding ball into body 451 470, 513, 518 Player in possession of ball 451–8, Match report 513, 515, 521, 522,

460 524 97 Must be given team lists 382–3, Ball striking non-player within goal 513, 521 area 468 Payment of expenses 508, 509, Damage caused to uprights or 525 crossbar 470 Players’ attire checked by referee Defender crossing goal line with 411, 513, 521 ball 464 Players’ refusal to continue with “Own” goal/point 463 game 515 Player on ground in possession of Presentation of medals 375 ball 466 Responsible for throw in at start of Referee has final decision to award each half 434 score 468, 470, 513, 518 Substitute referees 507 Team must have at least 11 players Scoring Device 518 to commence match 381, 523 To check for irregularities on field of Side-line: play 429, 513 Ball in Play 436 Training and assessment 506, 510 Ball in play until whole ball across Treatment of injuries 517 line 435 Ball played over side-line 439 Replays 418–24 Ball striking corner or side-line flags Draw in All Ireland final 424 441 Extra time compulsory in replay of Clashed ball crossing side-line 440 previously drawn game 420 Side-line kick 439 Venue selection 423, 424 Throw-in from side-line 440

Reports: Sin Bin 398–9 Failure to participate in game 514, Extra Time 398 523 Form and duration 398–9 Failure to provide team list 383 Returning to play 398 Interference by players or officials Substitutes 398–9 513 Irregularities on field of play 429, Substitutions 390–97 513 Extra Time substitutes 394, 395, Match report 513, 515, 521, 522, 396, 397 524 League Competitions 391 Players’ refusal to continue with Number of substitutes allowed game 515 391, 393, 394, 395 Remain property of committee in Player sent off by referee 390, 396, charge 522 397 Prior to commencement of game Scores 461–70 390 Attacker throwing or carrying ball Procedure 392 over goal line 465 Substitute referees 507 Ball hits uprights or crossbar and Team List must show substitute

98 comes back into play 469 names 390 see also Blood Subs; Sin Bin Yellow card offences: Fouls 473

Teams 378–89 Allowable formats 378–81 Delays in taking the field 386, 387, 388 Exceeding interval break 386 Game and function passes allowed 389 Team Lists 382–5, 390, 410, 522 Team must have at least 11 players to commence match 381, 523

Tee: Option to use 501

Timing Devices: Use by referee 519

Tipping: Tipping/Throwing ball 457, 458

Tournament Games 366–70 Affiliation 369 Authorisation 366, 367 Disciplinary matters 368 Féile Peil na nÓg 368 Guest players 370 Unauthorised games not covered by Injury Fund 367

Trophies 371–7 Acceptance and safe custody of cup or trophy 376 Repairs and replacement costs 376 Return date for cup or trophy 377

Umpires 526–33 Appointment 526 Duties and Powers 526–32 Signals 527, 530, 531 Subject to referee’s final decision 527

Video evidence 520

99 NOTES

100